I am 18 months post-op after having my upper jaw moved slightly out and down to alleviate severe TMJ pain. My facial features, in particular my nose and smile, were very symmetrical pre-op. I was told that my nose might be a bit wider post-op and I would likely have a longer upper lip.
However the surgery also resulted in a severely crooked smile and nose (when smiling). Both slant up on the left side. I had my plates removed a couple of months ago in an effort to regain symmetry, but it has not generated the desired result. My face in repose appears "normal", but severely crooked when smiling. I consulted a plastic surgeon who advised that the jaw/lip stitching was beautiful and therefore not causing the problem. And unfortunately, rhinoplasty isn't an option since it is a static surgery. My nose is only uneven when smiling (it's off by about a 1/4 inch! thus making my smile uneven by about the same amount). He advised that botox could potentially assist in lowering the left side of my face, but I'd prefer a more permanent solution.
Aside from the aesthetics, I am very pleased with the success of the surgery since I no longer have TMJ pain and can once again laugh without discomfort, talk without slurring, and eat steak without jaw popping. However, I am VERY displeased with my appearance now. I previously had a big, beautiful smile and slender symmetrical nose. I am now extremely self-conscience, relunctant to smile, and feel like a distorted Piccaso painting.
Has anyone had this type of side-effect or complication? If so, do you know what caused it and if there's any way to correct it?
