Protruded mouth surgery is widely performed in Korea to improve lip posture and side-profile balance. While outcomes are generally predictable when properly planned, it is still a surgical procedure involving bone and soft tissue—meaning risks and side effects should be clearly understood before deciding on treatment.

This guide explains the most common risks, temporary side effects, and less frequent complications, with a focus on realistic expectations and safe recovery.

Normal & Temporary Side Effects

These effects are expected and usually improve during recovery.

Swelling and Bruising

Facial swelling is most noticeable during the first 1–2 weeks, especially around the lips and lower face. Bruising may appear and gradually fade.

Pain and Tightness

Mild to moderate discomfort, pressure, or tightness around the mouth is common in the early days. Pain is typically manageable with prescribed medication.

Limited Mouth Opening

Temporary stiffness or reduced mouth opening can occur due to swelling and muscle tension. This usually improves with time and gentle exercises.

Speech Changes

Speech may sound unclear or different initially due to swelling and lip tension. Normal speech typically returns as swelling subsides.

Sensory Changes (Numbness or Tingling)

Temporary numbness or altered sensation around the lips, chin, or gums can occur due to nerve irritation.

• Usually temporary
• Sensation often improves gradually over weeks to months
• Permanent numbness is uncommon when surgery is properly planned

Bite or Occlusion Changes

Protruded mouth surgery may slightly affect how teeth meet, especially if orthodontic treatment is involved.

• Minor bite changes are common during early recovery
• Orthodontic adjustment helps stabilize alignment
• Persistent bite issues are rare when orthodontics and surgery are coordinated

Healing-Related Risks

Delayed Healing

Bone and soft tissue healing varies by individual. Smoking, poor oral hygiene, or underlying health conditions can slow recovery.

Infection

Infections are uncommon but possible. Proper oral care and antibiotics significantly reduce this risk.

Bleeding or Hematoma

Minor bleeding is normal early on. Significant bleeding is rare but requires medical attention.

Aesthetic Risks

Under-Correction

If the setback is too conservative, lip protrusion may still appear noticeable.

Over-Correction

Excessive setback can result in a flat profile or lip weakness. This is uncommon with experienced planning.

Facial Imbalance

Subtle asymmetry can occur if movements are not precisely balanced—highlighting the importance of 3D planning.

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Less Common but Serious Risks

Although rare, patients should be aware of:

• Persistent numbness
• Significant bite instability
• Need for revision surgery
• Unsatisfactory aesthetic outcome

These risks are minimized through accurate diagnosis, conservative planning, and experienced surgical technique.

How Korea Minimizes Surgical Risk

Korean clinics typically reduce complications by using:

• 3D CT imaging and digital surgical simulation
• Conservative setback strategies
• Coordinated orthodontic-surgical planning
• Structured post-operative monitoring

High surgical volume and standardized protocols contribute to generally stable outcomes.

Who May Have Higher Risk?

Risk may be increased in patients who:

• Smoke or vape
• Have gum disease or poor oral hygiene
• Have complex bite or skeletal issues
• Skip orthodontic treatment when recommended
• Rush surgery without full diagnostic planning

How to Reduce Risks Before Surgery

• Complete all recommended imaging and evaluations
• Follow orthodontic guidance closely
• Stop smoking well before surgery
• Ask detailed questions about surgical goals and limits
• Follow post-operative instructions strictly

Final Thoughts

Protruded mouth surgery in Korea is generally safe and predictable when performed with proper planning. Most side effects—such as swelling, numbness, and tightness—are temporary and expected. Serious complications are uncommon but should still be understood before treatment.

Informed decision-making, realistic expectations, and choosing a clinic that emphasizes diagnosis over aggressive correction are key to a safe and satisfying result.