Jaw Implants

Q: Dr. Eppley, I’m not completely comfortable with the jaw implant width that I currently have. You mentioned that a custom implant was the only option to achieve the vertical 11mm and still add more width. I would like to talk about this option before you procure the other implants. Do they make semi custom jaw implants as well?

A: When it comes to any facial implant, determining the dimensions of the implant to achieve any desired facial effect is as much an art form as a science. There is no way to know beforehand whether any implant choice will create the external effect that you want or whether it is even capable of doing so. Computer imaging tries to help in that role but in the end it is still a judgment with the knowledge there are no guarantees about the outcome. The role of custom implants is that they exceed the style, shape and dimensions of any of the standard sizes. Whether you are better off with a custom, special designed or standard jaw angle implants I can not tell you with assurances. I have given you my best opinion in that regard already. All options for jaw angle implants are on the table.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana