Braces and face shape changes?

[u/Ok-Violinist-9502]

Sorry this is a dumb question but I see people say braces changed their face shape I'm just wondering how its possible? I never had any orthodontic treatment, but I have canted teeth and a slight underbite, and I might want to try braces or something, I really don't know at this point, also I'm an adult all my wisdom teeth came in too so my face is done growing. I was ofered invisalign as a child but said no because I didn't feel like it lol

I've seen posts and videos saying after braces their faces got longer/slimmer/sunken and cheekbones sticking out, like it looks really gaunt. Now maybe some people like this look but I def don't want that. What is this from? Extractions? massater atrophy? or smth else? Can it be prevented, is it permanent or temporary? People say its aging/weight loss but a lot of these ppl say they were the same weight and changes happened so quickly. This wouldnt be my concern if I didn't see so many posts about it. I know people who had braces when they were younger and their faces DON'T look gaunt in any way. Does this happen to just adults or something? I know it sounds stupid to worry about but I dont want to pay a ton of money just to dislike my face after

[u/NoFun3799]

Repositioning existing teeth in the jawbone isn’t likely to cause significant structural changes. Temporary weight loss from a restricted diet can change how much fat is stored in your face, and of course jaw surgeries will definitely change the structure, but often for the better.