What Is the Facegenics FMA? The New Facemask Protraction Device Explained
If you’re following the latest in airway orthodontics and jaw development, you may have heard whispers about Facegenics’ new FMA device. This cutting-edge appliance pairs with the Facegenics Midface Expander (FME) to do something unprecedented: pull the entire upper jaw (maxilla) forward in a non-surgical way. In other words, FMA is a facemask-style device for maxillary protraction – essentially a high-tech update on traditional “reverse-pull” headgear used to correct underdeveloped upper jaws.
Unlike the old facemasks you might recall from childhood orthodontics, the FMA comes with innovative engineering and patent-backed design that could make a huge difference for adults and children alike.
What is the Facegenics FMA?
The Facegenics FMA stands for Facegenics Facemask Appliance. It’s essentially a modern orthodontic facemask designed to attach directly to a bone-anchored expander (like the FME) in a patient’s palate. In simpler terms, FMA is a device worn outside the mouth (similar to traditional headgear) that applies forward pulling forces to the upper jaw — but instead of pulling on your teeth, it pulls on your bones.
Figure below from the European Patent Office shows the general form of the device and the load path off the head and onto the torso via a chest harness.
Figure: Patent illustration of the Facegenics FMA (Facemask Appliance) – showing the cantilever-based protraction system with headgear, chest harness, and elastic attachment points for maxillary advancement. Source: EP 3820399 B1 – European Patent Office. Image reproduced for educational and informational purposes under fair use.
Key Components of the FMA
- Facemask Frame: An external frame with both headgear and a chest/shoulder harness to distribute force evenly.
- Cantilever Rod: Curved forward bar connecting the harness to the headpiece.
- Elastic Hooks: For attaching elastics or springs to the FME.
- Chest Anchor Plate: Transfers counterforce to the torso instead of the face.
- Forehead Pad: Provides stability and comfort for long wear times.
How Does the FMA Work?
- Bone-Anchored Expansion First (FME): Widening the upper jaw to loosen midface sutures.
- Attaching the FMA: Fitted over the head and torso, connected to the intraoral expander.
- Applying Protraction Force: Elastics pull the upper jaw forward while distributing counterforce to the chest and shoulders.
- Continuous Wear: Designed for extended daily wear, including overnight use.
- Adjustments: Force and angle can be fine-tuned over time.
Why Is the FMA Different from Old Facemasks?
- Skeletal Anchorage: Direct to bone via the FME — no unwanted dental movement.
- Force Distribution: Harness spreads pressure over chest and shoulders, reducing discomfort.
- Freedom of Movement: Low-friction joints allow head rotation and nodding without losing force.
Who Can Benefit from FME + FMA Treatment?
- Underbites (Class III Malocclusion)
- Adults with Narrow, Retruded Midfaces
- Airway and Sleep Apnea Patients
- Children with Craniofacial Growth Issues
- Post-Expansion Patients Wanting More
Clinical Insights and Patent-Backed Design
Patents reveal:
- Body-Anchored Protraction for reduced head compression.
- Cantilever Rod with Bearings for movement freedom.
- Adjustable Force Vectors to fine-tune jaw movement.
- Bed Mount Option for overnight traction.
FMA vs. Surgical Alternatives
While double jaw surgery remains the gold standard for severe cases, FMA offers:
- Gradual, non-surgical correction for select cases.
- Improved airway and breathing function alongside jaw changes.
- Reversible and adjustable treatment process.
Final Thoughts
The Facegenics FMA, paired with the FME, is a potential game-changer for non-surgical maxillary advancement. For patients who want to avoid invasive surgery while improving facial aesthetics, airway health, and overall function, this technology is worth watching.
