NuFace Hospital on September 21, 2024 Written by 
NextLevel Web Solution AgencyImproving Facial Function and Appearance
Vertical Maxillary Excess (VME) is a condition where there is an overgrowth of the upper jaw, leading to a disproportionate facial appearance, commonly referred to as a “gummy smile.”
For patients with this condition, VME can cause both aesthetic and functional challenges, impacting their ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently.
Understanding the treatment options, particularly surgical correction, is essential for those seeking long-term relief and improved facial harmony.
In this blog, we explore how Vertical Maxillary Excess correction can transform lives, providing not only aesthetic improvements but also functional benefits.
What is Vertical Maxillary Excess?
Vertical Maxillary Excess is characterized by an overly long upper jaw, which can result in excessive gum display when smiling.
In some cases, it may also affect the alignment of the jaw, leading to malocclusion (misalignment of teeth), which can further exacerbate functional problems like chewing difficulties and speech impediments.
Symptoms of VME include:
- Excessive gum display (“gummy smile”)
- Disproportionate facial appearance
- Malocclusion or bite issues
- Difficulty in chewing or speaking
Causes of Vertical Maxillary Excess
The causes of Vertical Maxillary Excess can be both genetic and developmental.
Some individuals are predisposed to the condition due to inherited facial features.
Others may develop it as a result of childhood habits like thumb sucking or mouth breathing, which can influence the growth of facial structures.
Key causes include:
- Genetic predisposition
- Developmental factors during childhood
- Mouth breathing or thumb-sucking habits
- Hormonal influences during growth phases
Treatment for Vertical Maxillary Excess
The most effective treatment for Vertical Maxillary Excess is orthognathic surgery, which realigns the jaw to create a balanced facial appearance.
In cases of mild VME, non-surgical options such as orthodontics or botox can provide temporary relief, but these do not address the root cause.
Orthognathic Surgery (Jaw Surgery):
Orthognathic surgery is the gold standard for treating severe cases of Vertical Maxillary Excess.
This procedure involves repositioning the upper jaw to reduce the vertical height and improve the overall facial profile.
The surgery is typically performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, in collaboration with orthodontists to ensure that teeth alignment is corrected.
Le Fort I Osteotomy:
A Le Fort I Osteotomy is a common surgical technique used to correct VME.
It involves making precise cuts in the upper jaw and repositioning it higher to reduce the excessive gum display.
This procedure not only improves the appearance of the smile but also corrects any bite issues or malocclusion caused by VME.
Non-surgical Options:
In mild cases, orthodontic treatments or botox injections may be recommended to temporarily reduce the appearance of a gummy smile.
However, these solutions are not permanent and may not address the underlying skeletal issues that cause VME.
Recovery and Results
Recovery after Vertical Maxillary Excess correction surgery typically takes several weeks.
Patients may experience swelling, discomfort, and dietary restrictions during the initial healing phase.
However, most patients return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks, and the full results, including improved facial aesthetics and function, are visible once healing is complete.
Post-surgery recovery tips:
- Adhere to soft or liquid diets during the initial healing phase
- Follow the surgeon’s instructions for oral hygiene and medication
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing
- Gradually reintroduce normal activities under medical guidance
The Benefits of Vertical Maxillary Excess Correction
Improved Facial Aesthetics:
Correcting VME significantly enhances the facial profile by reducing the prominence of the upper jaw and improving the balance between facial structures.
The reduction of gum display leads to a more harmonious smile, boosting the patient’s confidence.
Enhanced Functionality:
For many patients, VME is more than an aesthetic concern—it can affect everyday functions like chewing and speaking.
Post-surgery, patients often report improved bite alignment, making it easier to eat and speak clearly.
Long-Term Results:
Unlike non-surgical treatments that offer temporary relief, surgical correction of VME provides long-lasting results.
Patients can expect permanent improvements in both appearance and functionality, provided they maintain good oral health.
Why Choose nuFace Maxillofacial and Dental Hospital?
At nuFace Maxillofacial and Dental Hospital, led by Dr. Nehal Patel, we specialize in advanced treatments for jaw-related issues, including Vertical Maxillary Excess correction.
With cutting-edge technology and a patient-centered approach, our goal is to provide world-class care to patients from India and across the globe.
Dr. Nehal Patel’s expertise in oral and maxillofacial surgery ensures that patients receive personalized treatment plans designed to address both functional and aesthetic concerns.
To explore how nuFace can help you regain confidence and improve your quality of life, contact us today!
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