Jaw surgery, technically known as orthognathic surgery, is a procedure that corrects skeletal abnormalities of the jaw, improving both bite function and facial appearance. It is one of the most transformative procedures available in oral and facial surgery. Dr. Landon McLain of McLain Surgical Arts in Huntsville, Alabama holds dual board certifications in both cosmetic surgery and oral & maxillofacial surgery, a combination that makes him uniquely qualified to perform this complex and highly specialized procedure.

When Is Jaw Surgery Needed?

Orthognathic surgery is indicated when bite problems, jaw misalignment, or facial asymmetry cannot be corrected through orthodontics alone. Conditions commonly treated include:

How Jaw Surgery Works

Orthognathic surgery is performed under general anesthesia. All incisions are made inside the mouth, so there are no visible external scars on the face. Depending on whether the upper jaw (maxilla), the lower jaw (mandible), or both need correction, the surgeon carefully cuts the bone, repositions it to the planned position, and secures it with titanium plates and screws.

The precise movements are planned in advance using 3D imaging, digital models, and surgical planning software. This meticulous planning ensures that the corrected jaw position optimizes both bite function and facial aesthetics simultaneously.

The Role of Orthodontics in Treatment

Jaw surgery is almost always performed in conjunction with orthodontic treatment. Braces or clear aligners are placed before surgery to align the teeth within each jaw, so that when the jaws are repositioned, the teeth meet correctly. Post-surgical orthodontics then fine-tunes the bite. The total treatment timeline is typically one to two years.

What to Expect During Recovery

Most patients take two to three weeks off work or school following jaw surgery. A liquid and soft-food diet is required for several weeks as the bones heal, typically four to six weeks before advancing to normal foods. Swelling gradually improves over several months, with the majority resolving by three months.

Final results, including full resolution of swelling and complete stabilization of the bite, become apparent at six to twelve months following surgery.

Aesthetic Benefits of Jaw Surgery

While orthognathic surgery is primarily a functional procedure, the aesthetic improvements are often significant. Correcting a receding chin, a prominent lower jaw, or facial asymmetry produces visible improvements in facial balance and harmony. Many patients are surprised by how dramatically their facial appearance improves as a result of repositioning the underlying skeletal structure.

Why Choose Dr. McLain

Dr. McLain’s unique dual-specialty background in oral & maxillofacial and cosmetic surgery gives him an unparalleled perspective on the relationship between oral function and facial aesthetics. He lectures nationally and trains other surgeons in advanced orthognathic techniques, bringing world-class expertise to patients throughout the Southeast.

Dr. McLain provides orthognathic jaw surgery to patients in Huntsville, Decatur, Birmingham, Scottsboro, and throughout North Alabama and Southern Tennessee. Schedule a consultation at McLain Surgical Arts to learn more.

Contact McLain Surgical Arts in Huntsville, AL to Schedule a Consultation

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL.  Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing.

For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

When a Mini Facelift Is Enough vs When You Need a Full FaceliftFacelift surgery is not a one-size-fits-all procedure. Depending on the degree of aging and your specific concerns, a mini facelift or a full facelift may be recommended.

Understanding the differences between these options can help you choose the approach that best fits your goals. McLain Surgical Arts, led by cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides facelift to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

What Is a Mini Facelift

A mini facelift is a less invasive procedure that focuses on:

It involves smaller incisions and typically has a shorter recovery time.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Mini Facelift

What Is a Full Facelift

A full facelift addresses more advanced signs of aging, including:

It provides more comprehensive and longer-lasting results.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Full Facelift

Key Differences Between Mini and Full Facelift

Can Treatments Be Combined

Many patients combine facelift procedures with:

This enhances overall facial rejuvenation.

Choosing the Right Option

The best approach depends on:

Contact Us

If you are considering a facelift and want to understand whether a mini or full approach is right for you, we can help. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and receive a personalized recommendation based on your goals.


Contact
McLain Surgical Arts in Huntsville, AL to Schedule a Consultation

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL.  Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing.

For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Skin Laxity vs Volume Loss: Choosing the Right Facial TreatmentWhen patients begin to notice signs of facial aging, it can be difficult to determine the underlying cause. Two of the most common factors are skin laxity and volume loss.

While they may appear similar, they require different treatment approaches. Understanding the difference is essential for achieving the best results. McLain Surgical Arts, led by cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides facial surgery to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

What Is Volume Loss

Volume loss occurs when fat in the face diminishes over time, leading to:

This type of aging often creates a tired or sunken appearance.

What Is Skin Laxity

Skin laxity refers to loose or sagging skin caused by:

This results in:

How to Tell the Difference

Signs of Volume Loss

Signs of Skin Laxity

Many patients experience both at the same time.

Treatment Options for Volume Loss

These treatments restore fullness and improve facial contours.

Treatment Options for Skin Laxity

These options lift and tighten loose tissue.

Why Correct Diagnosis Matters

Using the wrong treatment can lead to suboptimal results. For example:

A proper evaluation ensures the right combination of treatments.

If you are unsure whether your concerns are due to volume loss or skin laxity, a consultation can provide clarity. Contact our office to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Contact McLain Surgical Arts in Huntsville, AL to Schedule a Consultation

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL.  Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing.

For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Combining Surgical and Non-Surgical Treatments for Natural Rejuvenation

Facial rejuvenation has evolved significantly, with patients now seeking results that look natural, subtle, and balanced. Instead of relying on a single treatment, many individuals benefit from combining surgical and non-surgical approaches.

This customized strategy allows for comprehensive improvement while maintaining a natural appearance. McLain Surgical Arts, led by cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides cosmetic treatments to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

Why Combination Treatments Work

Aging affects multiple layers of the face, including:

No single treatment can address all of these changes. Combining procedures allows for a more complete and harmonious result.

Common Non-Surgical Treatments

Non-surgical treatments focus on surface-level improvements and early signs of aging:

These options are ideal for maintenance and subtle enhancement.

Common Surgical Procedures

Surgical treatments address deeper structural changes:

These procedures provide longer-lasting and more dramatic improvements when needed.

How Treatments Are Combined

A personalized plan may include:

This layered approach enhances overall facial harmony.

Benefits of Combining Treatments

Who Is a Good Candidate

Combination treatments are ideal for patients who:

If you are considering facial rejuvenation, a customized combination of treatments may provide the best results. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and develop a plan tailored to your goals.

Contact McLain Surgical Arts in Huntsville, AL to Schedule a Consultation

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL.  Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing.

For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Facial Volume Loss With Aging: Why Fillers Alone Are Not Always EnoughFacial aging is a complex process that goes far beyond the appearance of wrinkles. One of the most significant changes that occurs over time is volume loss. As fat pads shift and diminish, the face can appear hollow, tired, or less defined.

While dermal fillers are a popular solution, they are not always enough to address all aspects of aging. Understanding the difference between volume loss and structural changes is key to achieving natural, long-lasting results. McLain Surgical Arts, led by cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides facial surgery to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

What Causes Facial Volume Loss

As we age, several changes occur beneath the skin:

These changes contribute to hollow cheeks, under-eye shadows, and loss of facial fullness.

How Fillers Help Restore Volume

Dermal fillers are designed to replace lost volume and enhance facial contours.

Common Areas Treated With Fillers

Fillers can create immediate improvement and are an excellent option for early signs of aging.

Why Fillers Alone May Not Be Enough

While fillers are effective for volume loss, they do not address:

Over-reliance on fillers to correct sagging can lead to an overfilled or unnatural appearance.

When Structural Support Is Needed

As aging progresses, lifting and repositioning tissue becomes more important than simply adding volume.

Procedures such as:

can restore underlying support and improve overall facial contours.

Combining Treatments for Optimal Results

Many patients achieve the best outcomes by combining:

This approach creates a balanced, natural-looking result.

The Goal: Natural Rejuvenation

Modern facial rejuvenation focuses on restoring youthful contours—not changing your appearance. The goal is to look refreshed, not overdone.

If you are noticing facial volume loss and want to explore your options, we can help create a personalized treatment plan. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and learn which approach is best for you.

Contact McLain Surgical Arts in Huntsville, AL to Schedule a Consultation

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL.  Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing.

For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

How Much Does Breast Augmentation Cost in Alabama? | HuntsvilleMany patients considering breast augmentation want enhancement without an obvious or artificial appearance. Achieving natural results requires careful planning, conservative decision-making, and a deep understanding of proportion. McLain Surgical Arts, led by cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides breast augmentation to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

Why Natural Results Depend on Proportion

Natural-looking augmentation enhances the body rather than overpowering it. Surgeons consider the relationship between the breasts, shoulders, waist, and hips to maintain harmony.

Implants that are too large for the frame can create long-term aesthetic and physical issues.

Selecting the Right Implant Size

Size selection is guided by chest width, existing breast tissue, and skin support. Surgeons avoid choosing sizes that stretch tissues excessively or distort natural contours.

Moderate volume often produces the most timeless and natural appearance.

Implant Profile and Shape Matter

Profile affects how far the breast projects forward. Moderate profiles often provide a softer slope, while higher profiles create a more dramatic look.

Choosing the correct profile helps avoid an exaggerated upper pole.

Placement and Surgical Technique

Implant placement plays a major role in natural outcomes. Proper pocket creation and precise positioning ensure smooth contours and balanced cleavage.

Attention to detail during surgery reduces visible edges and asymmetry.

When a Lift Is Necessary

If sagging is present, implants alone may worsen the appearance. Combining augmentation with a lift restores breast position and prevents an overdone or bottom-heavy look.

Customization Is the Key to Subtle Enhancement

Natural breast augmentation is never one-size-fits-all. Custom planning ensures results that look proportional, refined, and authentic.

Contact McLain Surgical Arts in Huntsville, AL to Schedule a Consultation

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL.  Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing.

For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

How a Tummy Tuck Can Enhance Your Post-Pregnancy Body | HuntsvilleWeight loss can significantly improve health and confidence, but it also affects skin and body contours. Understanding how weight loss impacts surgical body contouring helps patients plan procedures at the right time for the best results. McLain Surgical Arts, led by cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides body contouring to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

Why Weight Loss Changes Body Shape

When weight is lost, fat volume decreases but skin does not always retract fully. This can lead to loose or sagging skin, especially in the abdomen, arms, thighs, and breasts.

The degree of skin laxity depends on age, genetics, and the amount of weight lost.

Timing Surgery After Weight Loss

Body contouring surgery is best performed once weight has stabilized. Ongoing weight loss after surgery can compromise results and create new areas of looseness.

Most surgeons recommend maintaining a stable weight for several months before proceeding.

How Weight Loss Affects Surgical Planning

Significant weight loss may require more extensive contouring procedures, such as extended tummy tuck or combined body lifts.

Surgeons customize procedures based on remaining skin laxity and tissue quality rather than weight alone.

Maintaining Results Long Term

Stable weight is essential for preserving body contouring results. Weight fluctuations can stretch skin again and alter surgical outcomes.

Healthy lifestyle habits support long-lasting improvements.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Body contouring improves shape and firmness but does not replace weight management. Clear expectations help patients feel satisfied with their results and understand the role surgery plays in overall transformation.

Contact McLain Surgical Arts in Huntsville, AL to Schedule a Consultation

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL.  Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing.

For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

How to Prepare for Your Breast Augmentation ConsultationSuccessful breast surgery begins long before the day of the procedure. Careful planning is what allows surgeons to tailor results to each patient’s anatomy, goals, and lifestyle. Customization is essential for achieving natural-looking outcomes that feel balanced and long lasting. McLain Surgical Arts, led by cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides breast surgery to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

Understanding Patient Goals

Every patient comes to consultation with different priorities. Some want subtle enhancement, others want restoration after pregnancy or weight loss, and some seek correction of asymmetry or discomfort. A detailed discussion helps the surgeon understand desired size, shape, and overall aesthetic preferences.

Clear communication ensures that surgical planning aligns with realistic expectations.

Evaluating Anatomy and Proportions

No two bodies are the same. Surgeons assess chest width, breast base diameter, skin elasticity, tissue thickness, and nipple position. These measurements determine which surgical techniques and implant options are safe and appropriate.

Ignoring anatomical limits increases the risk of unnatural results or future complications.

Choosing the Right Procedure Type

Customization includes selecting the correct procedure. Options may include breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, or a combination approach.

For example, adding volume alone will not correct sagging, while lifting without volume may not achieve desired fullness. Proper planning determines whether one procedure or multiple techniques are needed.

Implant Selection and Placement

When implants are used, surgeons customize size, profile, and placement to suit the patient’s body. These decisions influence breast shape, cleavage, softness, and long-term stability.

Placement choices are also guided by activity level and tissue support.

Planning for Long-Term Results

A customized plan considers how results will age over time. Surgeons aim to avoid excessive tension, overstretching, or implant sizes that could compromise long-term outcomes.

Thoughtful planning supports results that remain attractive and comfortable for years.

Contact McLain Surgical Arts in Huntsville, AL to Schedule a Consultation

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL.  Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing.

For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

What to Expect During Your Facelift Recovery | Huntsville Cosmetic Surgery

Facial aging does not happen uniformly. Different areas of the face age at different rates, influenced by genetics, sun exposure, lifestyle, and skin quality. Understanding common facial aging patterns helps determine which procedures are most effective for natural rejuvenation. McLain Surgical Arts, led by cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides facial surgery to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

Upper Face Aging

The upper face often shows aging through drooping brows, forehead lines, and heavy upper eyelids. These changes can make patients appear tired or stern.

Procedures such as brow lift or eyelid surgery address excess skin and restore a more open, refreshed appearance.

Midface Aging

Loss of volume in the cheeks and descent of facial fat pads affect the midface. This can flatten cheek contours and deepen smile lines.

Midface rejuvenation may involve surgical lifting techniques or volume restoration to reestablish youthful contours.

Lower Face and Jawline Aging

The lower face commonly develops jowls, sagging skin, and loss of jawline definition. These changes contribute significantly to an aged appearance.

Facelift procedures are designed to reposition deeper tissues and improve contour rather than simply tightening skin.

Neck Aging

Neck aging often includes loose skin, muscle banding, and excess fat under the chin. These concerns may appear even when the face still looks youthful.

Neck lift procedures address muscle laxity and skin excess to create a smoother neckline.

Matching Procedures to Aging Patterns

Effective facial rejuvenation focuses on treating the specific areas affected rather than applying a single solution to every patient. Personalized evaluation ensures balanced, natural results.

Contact McLain Surgical Arts in Huntsville, AL to Schedule a Consultation

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL.  Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing.

For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Mommy Makeover Breast Options: Combining Breast and Body ProceduresPregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight changes can significantly affect the breasts and body. A mommy makeover is a customized surgical plan designed to restore shape, contour, and confidence by addressing multiple concerns at once. cLain Surgical Arts, led by cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides mommy makeover to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

How Pregnancy Affects the Breasts

After pregnancy and breastfeeding, many patients notice breast volume loss, sagging, stretched skin, or changes in nipple position. These changes often do not improve with diet or exercise alone.

Breast Procedures Commonly Included

Breast options in a mommy makeover may include:

The choice depends on anatomy, goals, and lifestyle.

Combining Breast and Body Procedures

Breast procedures are often combined with a tummy tuck and liposuction during a mommy makeover. Addressing multiple areas in one surgery allows for a single recovery period and cohesive results.

Recovery Considerations

Recovery varies depending on the combination of procedures. Most patients take two to three weeks off work. Light activity begins early, while strenuous exercise is restricted for several weeks.

Following postoperative instructions closely helps support healing and long-term results.

Results and Long-Term Benefits

As swelling subsides, results become more defined. A mommy makeover can restore body confidence, improve comfort in clothing, and deliver long-lasting results when paired with a stable weight and healthy habits.


Contact
McLain Surgical Arts in Huntsville, AL to Schedule a Consultation

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL.  Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing.

For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.