A recessed face, often characterized by a "weak chin" or jawline, occurs when the lower third of the face appears sunken or disproportionate compared to the rest of the facial structure.
In more detail, a recessed face is defined by the following:
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Recessed Mandible: The primary factor is a lower jaw (mandible) that sits further back than ideally positioned in relation to the upper jaw. This backward positioning causes the chin to appear less prominent.
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Weak Chin or Jawline: The diminished projection of the chin creates a less defined and weaker-looking jawline.
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Disproportionate Facial Appearance: This recession can make the nose appear larger and affect the overall balance and harmony of the face. The lower part of the face can seem to lack definition and structure.
The consequences of a recessed face extend beyond aesthetics. It can potentially contribute to:
- Breathing problems: A recessed jaw can restrict the airway.
- Sleep apnea: Related to restricted airways.
- Difficulty chewing: The misalignment of the jaws can affect chewing efficiency.
- TMJ disorders: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Possible solutions to improve facial profile include:
- Orthodontic treatment: Braces or aligners can sometimes reposition the teeth to improve jaw alignment.
- Jaw surgery (Orthognathic surgery): In severe cases, surgery may be needed to move the jaw forward.
- Chin implants: A chin implant can augment the chin and create a stronger jawline.
- Fillers: Dermal fillers can be injected to add volume to the chin and improve its projection.
In conclusion, a recessed face involves a backward-positioned lower jaw resulting in a less prominent chin, a weaker jawline, and a potentially disproportionate facial appearance, which may have functional implications.
