Asymmetry Correction and TMJ Services

Dr. Derek Steinbacher is a plastic surgeon in Guilford, Connecticut, who is pleased to offer both facial and body surgeries for adult men and women in his facility. In addition to standard procedures such as breast augmentation, tummy tucks, and rhinoplasties, he also offers more specific procedures such as asymmetry correction and TMJ surgery. Below is a little information about both surgeries to help you make an educated decision on the one right for you!

What is asymmetry correction in facial plastic surgery?

One of the main goals of facial plastic surgery is to achieve facial symmetry. However, sometimes patients have existing facial asymmetry that needs to be corrected. Depending on the specific problem, it can be done with various surgical procedures.

Some common causes of facial asymmetry include:

• Congenital deformity
• Trauma / acquired deformity
• Lower jaw growth disturbances (Condylar hyperplasia)
• Other mandibular, maxillary, and orbital deformities 

Correcting asymmetry often requires a combination of different surgical techniques. The goal is to create a more balanced and harmonious appearance. In some cases, this may also involve adjusting the position of the teeth or jawbone. In settings of condylar hyperplasia we may need to remove a portion of the top of your lower jawbone (mandibular condyle) – this helps stop the asymmetric growth, and can make the jaw angles more even as well (proportional condylectomy).  We also consider concurrent or staged orthognathic surgery, and jaw bone augmentation (implants) or reduction.  During a consultation with Dr. Steinbacher, patients can get a good idea of what is required to achieve their desired results.

What is TMJ surgery, and what is the goal?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull. It is responsible for all the lower jaw movements, including chewing and talking. When this joint is not working correctly, it can lead to a condition known as TMJ dysfunction, or “TMD.” This can present with symptoms, including pain, clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw, and difficulty opening and closing the mouth.

We are involved in TMJ treatment because the TMJs are the foundation for orthognathic jaw surgery.  We want the joints to be stable and disease free (and not changing) prior to and after orthognathic surgery, if possible.  Additionally, asymmetric growth at the TMJs can lead to facial asymmetry – and we want to be able to address the underlying cause(s).  In some cases, TMJ dysfunction can be treated with non-surgical methods such as medication, physical therapy, and bite splints. However, in more severe cases of TMJ surgery may be necessary to correct the problem. Several different surgical procedures can treat TMJ dysfunction, depending on the specific problem.

 We also treat cases of TMJ ankylosis – where the lower jaw joint is fused to the skull – and requires a joint replacement to enable mouth opening.  TMJ prostheses (or joint replacements) are also at times indicated for severe arthritis or condylar resorption of the bilateral TMJs (of the mandible / lower jaw).  

Learn more about asymmetry correction and TMJ services with a Guilford, Connecticut doctor

If you are experiencing thaw growth asymmetry, or TMJ arthritis, or other symptoms of TMJ dysfunction or want to achieve better asymmetry of the face with plastic surgery, consult with Dr. Derek Steinbacher to see if surgery is the right option for you. Call (203) 453-6635 to request an appointment.

Dr. Derek Steinbacher has devoted his life to aesthetic and life-changing surgery. He is an artistic and meticulous surgeon who draws patients from around the world due to his perspective, unmatched skill, and exceptional results. He is able to uniquely address the face (facelift + rejuvenation), jawline (orthognathic; chin; contouring; implants), nasal (rhinoplasty), eyelids, profile, neck, breast, and body with one-of-a-kind results.

He is a multiple Board-Certified, Fellowship-Trained Plastic, Cosmetic, and Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgeon. He is Fellow of the most prestigious surgical organizations, including the Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American College of Surgeons, the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, the Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery, Societies of Craniofacial and Maxillofacial Surgery, the Aesthetic Society, and the Rhinoplasty Society. He has served as Full-Professor of Plastic Surgery at Yale, including Director of the Cleft and Craniofacial Program, and Chief of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Dr. Steinbacher has unparalleled training at premier institutions, including Harvard and Johns Hopkins. His perspective brings together the best aspects of many distinct – but related fields – and it is this intersection of scope and expertise, in addition to an artistic eye, which enables excellent comprehensive results.

Dr. Steinbacher's approach: technical acumen, meticulousness, and penchant for combining art and science, together with his eye for balance, beauty, and harmony, helps achieve outcomes that greatly improve a person's confidence, health, and overall quality of life. Patients can trust that they are always in good hands!