Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)

Overview

Jaw surgery also known as orthognathic surgery it is a medical procedure that helps correct misaligned jaws and improve facial symmetry. It is often performed to fix issues related to chewing, speaking, breathing and jaw pain. Many people undergo this surgery for functional reasons while others opt for it to enhance facial aesthetics.

Why Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery) is Required?

• Jaw misalignment: If the upper and lower jaws do not align properly leading to difficulties in eating or speaking.
• Bite problems: Overbite, underbite or crossbite that causes discomfort.
• TMJ disorders: TMJ surgery may be needed for jaw joint issues causing pain and limited movement.
• Sleep apnea: In severe cases jaw correction surgery can help improve breathing.
• Facial symmetry correction: For those with asymmetrical jaws due to genetics or injury.
• Jaw fractures: When jaw surgery is needed for a broken jaw to restore proper function.

Key Advantages of Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)

Improves chewing, speaking and breathing.

Enhances facial balance and symmetry.

Reduces jaw pain and TMJ discomfort.

Corrects functional issues like underbite, overbite and misalignment.

Boosts self confidence and appearance.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Taking Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery) Treatment?

• Medical evaluation: A thorough examination by a specialist.
• Orthodontic treatment: Braces are often required before surgery.
• Healthy diet: A nutritious soft diet helps prepare for jaw surgery recovery.
• Lifestyle changes: Avoid smoking and alcohol for better healing.
• Mental preparation: Understand the recovery process and results of orthognathic surgery before and after.

How Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery) is Performed?

• Anesthesia: The patient is given general anesthesia for a painless procedure.
• Incisions inside the mouth: To prevent external scars the surgeon makes incisions inside the mouth.
• Bone repositioning: The maxilla (upper jaw) or mandible (lower jaw) is adjusted and secured with plates and screws.
• Corrective chin surgery: If required chin reshaping is performed.
• Closure: The incisions are stitched and the jaw is stabilised.

What You Can Expect?

1. Before the Procedure

Consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon.

X-rays, scans and orthodontic planning.

Discussion of jaw surgery cost and potential risks.

2. During the Procedure

The surgery can take 2-4 hours depending on the complexity.

The patient is under general anesthesia.

Bimax surgery may be done if both the upper and lower jaws need correction.

3. After the Procedure

Initial swelling and discomfort for a few weeks.

Liquid or soft food diet for a few weeks.

Full jaw surgery recovery takes around 6-12 months.

Follow up appointments for monitoring healing and progress.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Swelling and bruising: Common after surgery.
• Infection: Rare but possible.
• Nerve damage: Temporary numbness may occur.
• Jaw stiffness: Improves with physical therapy.
• Relapse: In some cases additional jaw reconstruction surgery may be needed.

Results/Outcomes

Improved jaw function and bite correction.

Enhanced facial symmetry and aesthetics.

Long term relief from TMJ pain and breathing issues.

Positive orthognathic jaw surgery before and after results.