Orthognathic surgery, often referred to as jaw correction surgery, addresses significant misalignments of the jawbones. It aims to improve both jaw function and facial appearance.
Understanding Jaw Correction Surgery
Orthognathic surgery involves repositioning the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both, to establish proper alignment. It corrects conditions that cannot be adequately resolved through orthodontics alone, such as severe overbites, underbites, open bites, and crossbites, where the teeth do not meet correctly.
The surgery also addresses facial asymmetry and certain temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. For individuals experiencing obstructive sleep apnea, this surgery can help open the airway.
Impacts on Function and Appearance
Patients often experience improved chewing efficiency, speech clarity, and significant relief from sleep apnea.
Orthognathic surgery commonly enhances facial balance and aesthetics. By correcting jaw discrepancies, the procedure contributes to a more proportionate and symmetrical facial appearance. These changes can lead to increased self-confidence and an improved quality of life for many patients.
Swelling and discomfort are expected, typically peaking within three to five days. While pain is manageable with prescribed medication, it can persist for several weeks. Patients must adhere to a strict liquid diet initially, gradually progressing to soft foods over several weeks to months as healing progresses.
Sensory changes, particularly numbness in the lips, chin, or palate, are common after jaw surgery. This altered sensation is usually temporary, with feeling often returning gradually over several months, sometimes up to a year. In some cases, a small percentage of patients, approximately 10%, may experience permanent numbness, especially after lower jaw surgery.
The entire treatment process requires a substantial time commitment, often spanning one to three years. This timeframe includes a pre-surgical orthodontic phase, which can last from six to eighteen months, followed by the surgical procedure itself, and then a post-surgical orthodontic phase. The total financial investment for orthognathic surgery is also considerable, encompassing the surgery, anesthesia, hospital stay, and the extensive orthodontic treatment before and after the procedure.
The Path Through Surgery and Recovery
The journey through orthognathic surgery begins with a comprehensive evaluation involving both an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and an orthodontist. This collaborative approach ensures a detailed treatment plan is developed, often using advanced imaging and models to precisely plan the jaw movements. The pre-surgical orthodontic phase then commences, where braces are used to align the teeth within each jaw. This preparation is crucial, as it sets the teeth into positions that will fit together correctly once the jaws are surgically realigned.
The surgical procedure itself is typically performed under general anesthesia in a hospital setting. Surgeons make precise incisions, usually inside the mouth to avoid visible facial scars, though small external incisions may sometimes be necessary. The jawbones are then carefully cut, repositioned, and secured in their new alignment using small plates, screws, or wires. The procedure can take several hours, depending on its complexity.
Following surgery, patients typically remain in the hospital for one to two days for monitoring and initial recovery. During this immediate post-operative period, managing pain and swelling is a primary focus, often with prescribed medications and ice packs. Patients are guided on maintaining oral hygiene and adhering to a liquid diet to support healing. A gradual return to normal activities is expected, with light activity possible within four to seven days, and a return to work or school often feasible around two weeks post-surgery. Full bone healing and complete functional recovery can take six to twelve months, during which ongoing orthodontic adjustments may occur.
Weighing Your Options
Deciding whether to pursue orthognathic surgery is a deeply personal choice that requires careful consideration of all factors. It is advisable to consult with multiple specialists, including different oral surgeons and orthodontists, to gather various perspectives on your specific condition and potential treatment paths. Asking detailed questions about their qualifications, the recommended procedure, potential outcomes, and recovery expectations can provide clarity. Understanding realistic results, both functionally and aesthetically, is important for setting appropriate expectations.
For some individuals with less severe jaw misalignments, non-surgical alternatives might be an option. These can include orthodontic treatments like braces, custom oral appliances, or other approaches aimed at improving bite alignment or managing symptoms without surgery. Ultimately, the decision involves assessing whether the potential improvements in function, health, and appearance outweigh the significant commitment of time, effort, and financial resources required for the surgical process and recovery.