Woman Shares Painful Journey to Correct Severe Underbite After Double Jaw Surgery
- Victor Nwoko
- Sep 2
- 2 min read
Luisa McDermott, 26, from Bradford, has shared the challenges and triumphs of her long journey to correct a severe underbite, describing the experience as “absolutely worth it.” McDermott developed a 3cm underbite at age nine, leaving her lower jaw protruding beyond her upper jaw. The condition affected her confidence throughout her teenage years. “People would say ‘your jaw is massive,’” she recalled. “My jaw made me really unhappy, and I hated having photos.”
Determined to correct the issue, McDermott underwent her first surgery at 18, during which her jaw was shaved down by 4mm. The preparation for surgery involved frequent hospital visits every six weeks to ensure her teeth were ready. She chose to delay university during this period in case surgery became necessary.
McDermott then spent eight more years wearing braces while awaiting her final double-jaw surgery. The procedure, performed earlier this year, moved her lower jaw back by 0.8mm and advanced her upper jaw by 1cm. She shared videos showing the immediate aftermath, including severe swelling that prevented her from eating solid foods for two months. “I was on a liquid diet for two weeks, then mashed potatoes, and needed 24/7 care,” she said. McDermott described swelling, bruising, nosebleeds, and temporary inability to see out of one eye, noting that recovery was “so uncomfortable” but transformative.
Despite ongoing challenges with eating, chewing, and sensation in her chin and upper lip, McDermott reports newfound confidence. “A lot of people don’t recognise me,” she said, recalling the reactions of neighbors and colleagues. She is due to have her braces removed in January, marking the final step in her corrective journey.
Reflecting on the experience, McDermott said, “I love my side profile now. Everything is in place and symmetrical. I feel a million times better when I look in the mirror. I’d do it all over again.”
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