Revolutionary 3D Printing Technology for Jaw Reconstruction Launched in Japan

Introduction to the Jaw Reconstruction Project

In Japan, the rising demand for facial contouring has led to an increased interest in jaw reduction surgeries, specifically the surgical alteration of the mandible angle. This procedure has gained popularity among individuals seeking a slimmer face. However, a growing number of patients are facing aesthetic issues due to excessive bone removal during these surgeries.

Background of the Jaw Reconstruction Project

Patients have reported various complications following jaw reduction surgeries, including:

- A recessed line from the jaw to the chin, often termed as a “dog jaw” look.
- Unnatural changes to the facial outline.
- Regrets over excessive bone removal, desiring to restore their prior appearance.

Once bone is removed, reversing the effects becomes an arduous task. In the field of plastic surgery, however, reconstructive surgery plays a crucial role in addressing tissue deficiencies due to diseases, injuries, tumor removals, or congenital defects, aiming to restore both function and natural aesthetics. At The Plus Clinic, a unique approach that combines knowledge from reconstructive surgeons and aesthetic considerations from cosmetic surgeons enables us to offer comprehensive reconstructive treatments.

Introduction of Innovative Reconstruction Techniques in Japan

As the demand for reconstructive surgeries increases, traditional methods have raised concerns among patients. Typically, artificial bones made from hydroxyapatite are used for such procedures; however, they are rigid, lacking flexibility, thus requiring an external incision of 3-5 cm, which can leave visible scars.

To combat these issues, The Plus Clinic has partnered with a Korean company specializing in 3D bio-printing technology. In 2024, they introduced the innovative bio-printed artificial bone made from PCL (Polycaprolactone) and β-TCP (beta-tricalcium phosphate) in Japan. This advancement in technology is already utilized in Korea and has shown promising clinical outcomes, proving to be a safe and effective solution.

Advantages of the New Bio-Printed Artificial Bone

- Flexibility: The material's flexibility allows for an intraoral approach, minimizing visible facial scars.
- Biocompatibility: Over time, this artificial bone is organically absorbed, replaced by the patient’s own bone.
- Custom Design: Each implant is designed based on CT data, ensuring precise alignment with each patient’s unique skeletal structure.

These innovations offer new alternatives for patients who may have previously faced challenges in obtaining reconstructive treatments, offering them hope and effective solutions.

Clinical Results and Academic Presentation

Since the implementation of the 3D bio-printed artificial bones in 2024, several reconstructive cases have been successfully conducted. Leading surgeon Dr. Yoshiteru Sakamoto, who specializes in contour surgery at The Plus Clinic, presented cases at the 68th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society of Plastic Surgery in April 2025.

During his presentation, he highlighted a case involving a patient who faced unnatural contours from previous contour surgeries. Follow-up CT scans indicated that the reconstruction closely resembled the patient’s original bone structure, confirming the technique's effectiveness.

Despite these encouraging results, the number of observed cases in Japan remains limited, necessitating further clinical data collection. To facilitate this, The Plus Clinic has opened the application process for monitor participants needing reconstructive surgery under a zero-fee technical charge.

Monitor Recruitment for Jaw Reconstruction Project

This initiative targets individuals who suffer from unnatural jaw contours following prior surgical procedures.

- Eligible Procedure: Jaw (mandible angle) reconstruction.
- Costs (tax included):

- Technical fee: 1,650,000 yen → 0 yen (for this project only, offered free of charge)
- Artificial bone (bilateral): 1,650,000 yen
- CT analysis/Design/Design fee: 110,000 yen
- General anesthesia fee: 220,000 yen

- Monitor Conditions: Participants must cooperate with post-operative check-ups, including clinical evaluations and photographic documentation, for one to one and a half years. Agreement to share case photos for academic and media purposes is required.

- Application Procedure: Interested individuals can contact The Plus Clinic's official LINE account, specifying their interest in the monitor program. Eligibility will be confirmed based on medical evaluation.

Looking Ahead

The Plus Clinic is committed not only to enhancing aesthetic beauty but also prioritizing patient well-being through functional improvements. We aim to strengthen the foundation of aesthetic medicine by further developing our reconstructive techniques through continuous clinical studies and research efforts.

Members of the Jaw Reconstruction Project include Dr. Yoshiteru Sakamoto, Dr. Takayuki Okumoto, Dr. Yoshikazu Inoue, Dr. Daikan Ike, Dr. Maki Inukai, Dr. Shunsuke Nagae, and Dr. Hiroshi Nishioka.

Overview of The Plus Clinic Daikanyama

- Hospital Name: The Plus Clinic Daikanyama
- Location: 3F, ROOB1 Daikanyama, 28-13 Sarugakucho, Shibuya, Tokyo, 150-0033
- Established: March 31, 2021
- Director: Daikan Ike

The Plus Tokyo Website

Overview of The Plus Clinic Nagoya

- Hospital Name: The Plus Clinic Nagoya
- Location: 2F, Famous Marunouchi, 3-18-22 Marunouchi, Naka Ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 460-0002
- Established: May 10, 2023
- Director: Shunsuke Nagae

Nagoya Clinic Website