Jaw reshaping surgery is one of the most transformative procedures in facial gender confirmation, allowing patients to achieve a softer, more feminine jawline or a stronger, more masculine facial profile. At Tran Plastic Surgery, Dr. Tuan Tran and his team specialize in advanced jaw contouring techniques to help patients align their physical appearance with their true identity while ensuring natural, harmonious results.
Whether your goal is to refine a square jaw into a tapered, elegant contour or to build structure and definition into your lower face, jaw reshaping plays a central role in both facial feminization surgery and facial masculinization surgery.
Why Jaw Reshaping Matters in Gender Confirmation Surgery
The jawline frames the lower third of the face and significantly influences how masculine or feminine a face appears.
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Feminine Jawline – Typically narrower, rounded at the edges, and more pointed at the chin.
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Masculine Jawline – Usually broader, squarer, with a sharper angle at the mandibular corners.
By altering the jawbone and surrounding tissues, jaw reshaping brings balance and proportion to the face, enhancing the overall impact of gender confirmation surgery.
Who Is a Candidate for Jaw Reshaping?
Ideal candidates include:
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Adults in good health with no untreated medical conditions
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Patients undergoing facial feminization or masculinization surgery
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Individuals with realistic expectations about surgical outcomes
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Those seeking to reduce or enhance the width, angles, or projection of the jaw and chin
During your consultation, Dr. Tuan Tran will evaluate your facial anatomy, discuss your goals, and design a personalized surgical plan.
Jaw Reshaping for Facial Feminization
Jaw reshaping in feminization aims to soften, narrow, and refine the jawline to create a balanced, delicate appearance. The most common techniques include:
1. Mandibular Angle Reduction
Through a discreet incision inside the mouth, Dr. Tran removes excess bone at the mandibular angle (the back corner of the jaw). This reduces squareness, creating smoother transitions and a softer profile.
2. Mandibular Body Reduction
When the jawline appears wide from the front view, additional bone shaving (mandibular corticectomy) narrows the jaw’s horizontal width, resulting in a slimmer, V-shaped contour.
3. Chin Reduction (Genioplasty)
To complete facial harmony, chin reshaping often accompanies jaw contouring. Reducing chin width or projection creates a more oval or heart-shaped face. In select cases, Dr. Tran may use a small chin implant to enhance proportion and achieve refined definition.
These combined techniques are critical for patients seeking a smooth, naturally feminine transformation.
Jaw Reshaping for Facial Masculinization
In masculinization, the goal is the opposite—strengthening the lower face for sharper, bolder contours. Options include:
1. Mandibular Angle Augmentation
Jaw implants are the most permanent solution, available in various shapes to enhance jaw projection and definition. For patients seeking a less invasive approach, fat grafting or dermal fillers can also build volume.
2. Mandibular and Chin Augmentation
To achieve a strong, chiseled jawline, Dr. Tran may recommend chin implants, mandibular implants, or non-surgical enhancement with dermal fillers or fat transfer. These methods create symmetry and give the jawline a powerful, masculine presence.
By tailoring techniques to each patient’s unique goals, Dr. Tran ensures results that look natural and authentic.
Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Options
Jaw reshaping can be performed surgically for permanent results or non-surgically for temporary enhancement.
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Non-Surgical Options: Dermal fillers and fat transfer provide immediate improvements with minimal downtime but require maintenance.
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Surgical Options: Bone contouring and implants achieve permanent structural changes with transformative results.
Dr. Tran will help you decide which approach best matches your goals, lifestyle, and recovery preferences.
Recovery Timeline
Recovery varies depending on whether bone contouring, implants, or non-surgical methods are used. Below is a general overview:
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Dermal Filler – Minimal downtime, patients return to normal activities immediately; results last up to 2 years.
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Fat Transfer – Initial recovery takes 1–2 weeks; final results appear after 6 months.
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Silicone Implants – Most patients resume work in 1 week, with full healing over 3–4 months.
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Jaw Reduction Surgery – Patients typically return to work within 2 weeks, though complete healing may take up to 12 months.
Since most incisions are made inside the mouth, visible scarring is rare. Dr. Tran provides detailed post-operative instructions to ensure smooth recovery and optimal results.
Results of Jaw Reshaping
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Facial Feminization Results: A narrower, softer, V-shaped jawline that enhances feminine features.
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Facial Masculinization Results: A stronger, angular, and chiseled jawline that reinforces masculine identity.
Patients often report improved confidence and a deeper sense of alignment between their external appearance and internal identity.
Insurance and Cost
Jaw reshaping may be covered by insurance when performed as part of medically necessary gender affirmation surgery. At Tran Plastic Surgery, our team works with multiple insurance providers, including CalOptima, to help patients access the care they need.
We also offer transparent pricing, financing options, and guidance on insurance approval during your consultation.
Why Choose Tran Plastic Surgery?
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Expertise in Gender Surgery – Dr. Tuan Tran is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in gender confirmation procedures.
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Comprehensive Approach – Every treatment plan is fully customized, often combining jaw reshaping with complementary services like forehead contouring or tracheal shave for complete facial harmony.
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Local Care in Huntington Beach, CA – Patients benefit from accessible, high-quality surgical care close to home.
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Patient-Centered Philosophy – Our mission is to deliver results that not only look natural but also reflect each patient’s authentic self.
Meet Dr. Tuan Tran
Dr. Tuan Tran, M.D., M.B.A., F.A.C.S., is a fellowship-trained plastic surgeon who has helped countless patients achieve life-changing transformations. Known for his precision, compassion, and artistry, Dr. Tran is dedicated to advancing surgical techniques in gender confirmation and reconstructive procedures.
Take the Next Step
If you are considering jaw reshaping surgery, the first step is a private consultation with Dr. Tran. Together, you will explore your goals, discuss treatment options, and create a surgical plan designed for your needs.
📞 Call us today at 714-839-8000 or request a consultation online at Tran Plastic Surgery Contact Page.
Your journey toward a confident, authentic self starts here.
References:
✍️ Bettens, R., Mommaerts, M., & Sykes, J. (2002). Aesthetic malar recontouring: the zygomatic sandwich osteotomy. Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America, 10(2002), 265-277.
✍️ Deguchi, M., Iio, Y., Kobayashi, K., & Shirakabe, T. (1996, Mar 12). Angle-splitting ostectomy for reducing the width of the lower face. Osaka Shirakabe Institue.
✍️ Implantech. (n.d.). Flowers mandibular glove. Implantech Superior Patient Aesthetics. Retrieved from https://www.implantech.com/product/flowers-mandibular-glove/
✍️ Jin, H. & Kim, B. G. (2003, June 2). Mandibular angle reduction versus mandible reduction. BK Plastic Surgery Clinic.
✍️ Li, J., Hsu, Y., Khadka, A., Hu, J., Wang, D., & Wang, Q. (2010, November 1). Contouring of a square jaw on a short face by narrowing and sliding genioplasty combined with mandibular outer cortex ostectomy in Orientals.. American Society of Plastic Surgeons.