I think I agonized over it tens of thousands of times before deciding to have square jaw surgery after turning forty~ At my age, having bone shaved down might look excessive to others, but a lifelong complex never really becomes dull just because time passes~ Because of my age, it wasn’t a reckless decision; I think it was a path I chose very carefully for the rest of my life~
During my consultation with Director Lee Ji-hyuk at ID, whom I found through an acquaintance’s introduction, he didn’t push things too far for my face shape and set the direction within the safest possible range. That seasoned judgment helped me decide with peace of mind~
From after surgery until days 3~4, my face was at peak swelling, so it wasn’t an easy time, but I quietly endured exactly as the hospital instructed. I basically lived with cold packs all week, held back from using a straw until the intraoral stitches were removed, and focused only on taking care of my body. Thankfully, since I work freelance, I think it was a bit easier to manage my recovery~
From one week later, the hospital also did laser treatment and packs for aftercare, so I could feel myself starting to look human again~ In week 2, they used an ultrasound device to massage and reduce the swelling, and in week 3, they used warm high-frequency treatment to loosen the tight muscles, so I definitely felt like my recovery speed picked up. Since I’m in my 40s, I was really worried about skin elasticity, but this kind of aftercare felt very reassuring.
After staying away from alcohol, which I usually like, for 4 weeks and getting through the major swelling, I’m already entering month 3. It will probably take a long 6 months for the bone to settle completely and sensation to return, but when I look at myself now, it’s not just that I’ve become prettier. Before, I was always shrinking back because I was busy trying to hide my jawline, but now I feel like my whole attitude when I sweep my hair back and face people has become much more confident.
It’s not that I dramatically became a different person, but should I say it feels like I finally found the natural line I had wanted? The very atmosphere with which I face my life feels clearly different from before.
To people like me who are trying to gather courage after long hesitation, I really want to tell you that your careful consideration will never have been in vain^^