I had severe insecurities about my facial shape, especially my side profile, because of asymmetry, a prominent lower jaw, and square jawline. I decided to have surgery after realizing that I was so self-conscious I was even afraid of being photographed. About ten years ago, a dental clinic I attended had already recommended surgery, but I was afraid of such a major procedure and only underwent orthodontic treatment. Even after long-term extraction orthodontics, there was little change, which was another major reason I decided on surgery.
After deciding, I compared reviews and in-person consultations. My criteria were: 1. extensive surgical experience; 2. first determining whether surgery was truly necessary instead of pushing an excessive procedure; and 3. pursuing an attractive result that looked natural rather than awkward. The surgical approach I felt during my consultation at [Clinic A] matched these criteria, so I chose it! [Doctor A] did not make objectively unnecessary comments and clearly explained the difficulty and method of the surgery. Since this was a major operation, I also felt I needed a balanced perspective, so I researched extensively and went in mentally prepared. The consultation was therefore not especially difficult.
After the consultation, I decided on double-jaw SSRO + three facial-contouring procedures (cheekbones, square jaw, and chin) + postoperative orthodontics.
[Day of surgery and recovery] I was working at the time, so I took about 10 days of leave including a holiday and returned to work about two weeks later. I passed the preoperative tests without any major issues. On the day of surgery, I had been so worried beforehand that I was surprisingly not nervous during the procedure. I had surgery alone without a caregiver, but I had prepared my supplies well in advance, so it was not especially difficult.
Of course, it was impossible to have no pain, and the dull pain was fairly intense. In fact, the hardest time was not immediately after surgery but the day before discharge and the two days after discharge—three days in total. I was very swollen, my mouth was dry, and I felt exhausted. I could barely sleep then. I had a high fever and think I woke up sitting up about once every two hours. From immediately after surgery until the period when I was drinking New Care, I could hardly eat and mostly drank water. I had almost no appetite to begin with, haha. This probably varies from person to person. Recovery progressed quickly once I moved on to blending strawberries or bananas with milk, then to eating finely broken-up ramen.
Because I was working, swelling was my biggest concern, but I think it went down well because I walked quite diligently outside. The doctor also emphasized during the consultation that walking was important. Since swelling decreases gradually rather than disappearing instantly, it can feel slow at first, but walking a lot helped. Brushing my teeth and disinfecting the surgical area with mouthwash were somewhat troublesome, but everything was bearable~!
[One year after surgery] Because I had postoperative orthodontics, I underwent orthodontic treatment for about a year starting three months after recovering from surgery. Because of the orthodontic treatment I had before surgery, the treatment finished faster than expected, and I am currently wearing retainers.
After recovering, I clearly thought that I should have done it as soon as possible, even one day earlier, after deciding on surgery. Complete swelling recovery from the surgery itself can take six months to a year, and dental treatment plus mandatory retainer wear also take time. Having surgery even a little earlier seems to allow faster recovery and greater satisfaction, haha.
The amount I could eat decreased because of the surgery, and I also exercised and dieted, so I naturally lost weight—nearly 10 kg. My appearance improved in many ways, and I am most satisfied that my overall impression became softer. I experienced no major side effects. All of the strange sensations had returned within six months. The last areas to recover were around my left cheekbone and upper jaw, but those recovered soon as well. Everything is completely normal now.
I am still careful about eating hard foods just in case, but I can now eat foods about as slightly firm as an apple without any problems. After surgery, you practice opening your mouth; even if it is uncomfortable, it is important to work hard at it.
People who knew I had surgery said it turned out really well, while those who did not know said I just looked like I had lost some weight. But when they saw my preoperative photos, everyone was surprised 😄
It is something to choose carefully because it is a major operation, but for me it was the best choice because I was able to erase the biggest insecurity of my life. Even if I could go back, I think I would still choose surgery. I did not wish to become extraordinarily beautiful; my greatest wish was to erase the insecurity that had burdened my life. I am extremely satisfied now, and if you are in a similar situation, I think surgery could help you a lot. I am happy that I overcame the difficult surgery and recovery process and can live a much better life than before!