Can I Get Jaw Implants After Having Total TMJ Replacements?

Q: Dr. Eppley, Looking to have jaw implants done. I’ve had TMJ replacement, so my ramus on one side is titanium as my joint is a prosthetic. I would think I can still have jaw implants, but I would like clarification. This will explain if your unsure what this is.

A: I am very familiar with the Total TMJ Joint Replacement system since I served as one of the clinical investigator sites in the late 1990s for its FDA approval. An implant can be placed over the the titanium ramus component but should be done through the external incisions to lower the higher risk of infection that exists from an intraoral approach.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon