Imagine going to a surgeon to enhance your cheekbones, chin, jawline, or lips and learning that the procedure can be done without a scalpel. The surgeon may tell you, “We can enhance your facial features by using your own body’s natural growth processes.” While this may take a few months, it’s possible. How is this achieved? With a simple and innovative device called a growth or remodeling appliance that stimulates bone growth using your body’s physiology and DNA.
The treatment works through a trauma response. Think about breaking a bone at the age of 70. The doctor would put a cast on your leg, and over time, the bone would heal. Do you agree that the bone healed? Yes or No? If you answered yes, you recognize that bones can regenerate and grow even later in life.
Our device mimics a break in the upper jawbone. It tricks the body into thinking the bone is fractured, a technique known as “mini trauma.” By continuously applying gentle pressure on a nerve located behind your two front teeth—where you might feel a “pizza burn”—the body believes the bone is broken. It’s a constant, non-painful push, leading to natural bone growth and remodeling.
Patients using this growth or remodeling appliance achieve fantastic results. Subtle asymmetries, such as undeveloped cheekbones, a less defined chin, or uneven lips, start to correct themselves, resulting in a more balanced and refined facial profile.
From 1950 to 1990, Professor Donald Enlow published Facial Growth, a pivotal book detailing facial growth and remodeling centers throughout the face. His research laid the foundation for dentists and professionals attempting to enhance facial features using his principles. Enlow’s work, combined with Wolff’s Law, which states that bones can reshape when pressure is applied, led to the development of the remodeling appliance. The Facial Beauty Institute in Memphis developed the one we use today.
Before deciding on facial lift surgery, it’s important to assess your dental arches and bite. Are they narrow or wide? Do you have difficulty breathing at night? Is your airway wide enough? Do you have unusual tongue habits? Is your smile aesthetically pleasing? If any of these questions concern you, contact our office at (310) 276-4537 to explore whether a facial lift is right for you.
Our office is in-network with all major insurance providers. Please bring your insurance card to each appointment so we can make sure your information is as up-to-date as possible.
