An asymmetrical face can be caused by excessive growth of the mandibular condyle. For issues of facial asymmetry, a surgery called a condylectomy may be necessary.
When this small bone grows more than it should, it generates an asymmetry that affects our facial aesthetics and confidence.
Condylectomy is also one of the medical procedures used to treat temporomandibular joint disorders, also known simply as TMJ. It is a surgical procedure used in cases that involve an organic disease of the said joint. It works by totally removing the condyle. The TMJ is a condylar joint which is the main joint of the jaw.
WHAT IS A CONDILECTOMY?
A condilectomy is a surgical intervention aimed at patients with ‘condylar hyperplasia’.
Condylar hyperplasia is an alteration in which the shape and size of the mandibular condyle is increased. This normally occurs on one side of the jaw and causes a visible facial deformity. In turn, it affects the aesthetics and functionality of the jaw and face.
Consequently, the problem of facial asymmetry arises and condylectomy surgery could be the solution. This is a treatment performed on the head of the mandibular condyle to stop its growth.
In many cases, condylectomy complements orthognathic maxillofacial surgery. However, it is important to mention that condylectomy is not the first option to correct condylar hyperplasia.
In reality, condylectomy surgery is only performed if the condyle continues to grow. Otherwise, only orthognathic maxillofacial surgery would be necessary.
The Next Step?
First, an evaluation appointment with our specialist, Dr. Alfredo Zuiko, is required. In this evaluation you will be asked important questions and 3D x-rays will be taken. These 3D images provide many details and give us a 100% sure diagnosis.
Dr Alfredo Zuiko is our specialist in Maxilofacial surgeries
Facial asymmetry – Condylectomy
Here, it is important to determine whether the growth of the patient’s mandibular condyle is still active or not. If so, Dr Zuiko will probably recommend orthognathic maxillofacial surgery combined with a condylectomy.
The surgery lasts four to five hours and is performed under general anesthesia. It begins with orthognathic maxillofacial surgery to correct the pathology.
Next, a condylectomy is performed to stop the growth of the condyle. To do this, a small incision is made in a crease of the ear to avoid noticeable scars. From there, the condyle is reached and a cut is made at the level of its head.
Finally, stitches are placed, which are removed about a week after surgery.
FACIAL ASYMMETRY – AM I A CANDIDATE FOR CONDYLECTOMY SURGERY?
This specialized surgery is aimed at patients who present deviations at the level of the lower dental midline. In addition to this, they have the mandible or maxilla deviated to one side.
The best age to perform it is in the patient’s growth stage, especially during the teenage years.
However, a clinical assessment and 3D imaging is important.
AFTER CARE
Antibiotics and pain relievers will be prescribed to control any discomfort. The postoperative period is a bit annoying because there is limitation in the opening of the mouth. However, this is controlled with the prescription medication that will be provided.
On the other hand, it is recommended that the patient start chewing food quite soon. This helps give the jaw functionality and important. Otherwise, the joint could become stuck (ankylosis) and another intervention would be necessary to reverse this.
It is important to do exercises to open the mouth and the joint which we will teach you and show how to do. It is simple and should be a priority in the following days.
After about ten to fourteen days, you will be able to continue with your usual lifestyle, although heavy workouts should be avoided for the first three or four weeks.
SOUNDS GOOD? SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
If you are not satisfied with your chin and you think you need a condilectomy surgery, please contact us.
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