How Would My Jaw Asymmetry Be Treated?

Q: Dr. Eppley, My left hemimandible has a much better angle and definition than my right hemimandible which is not as pronounced and is vertically higher if that makes sense. Attached is also a childhood photo (because at first I was thinking this is a mild version of hemifacial microsomia, however when looking at my childhood photo I appear to be relatively symmetrical insofar as my jaw/cheek/ears are concerned so I am not so sure this is the diagnosis. The asymmetry didn’t manifest or become very apparent until my teenage years when I had four years of braces while going through puberty). When I was 16 and my braces came off I sought out a maxillofacial/plastic surgeon who at that time advised I wait until I am older/have fully matured before seeking corrective surgery. I am currently 24 years old, ultimately happy with the way I look especially on the left side of my face, however my goal is just to make my right side as symmetrical to the left as possible. 

A: Thank you for your inquiry and sending your pictures. The type of jaw asymmetry you have is the most common and presents just as you have by:

1) Usually only appearing after puberty

2) One jaw angle will be higher and less defined and the other lower and more defined.

3) The male preference is almost always for the lower more defined side of the jaw.

Such jaw asymmetries are evaluated by a 3D CT scan and treated by the design and placement of a custom implant to build up the higher asymmetric side.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana