Orthognathic Surgery

What is an orthognathic surgery?

Orthognathic surgery, or corrective jaw surgery, is performed as a functional surgery to correct jaw bone and dental concerns, although it will also have a large impact on a patient's facial appearance. Orthognathic surgery is performed by a specialized oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS).

The Anatomy of the Oral Cavity

This procedure addresses both the upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw bones. Orthognathic surgery can correct bite alignment, oral health, TMJ disorders, breathing problems like obstructive sleep apnea, birth defects, and other functional concerns.

What cosmetic concerns does an orthognathic surgery procedure treat?

1. Misaligned Teeth & Bite: Alterations to the jaw bones allow surgeons to correct alignment.
2. Neck & Jawline Definition: Alterations to the jaw bones lead to functional improvements to the oral cavity and jaw.
3. Respiratory Issues: Changes to the oral cavity can help to open air passages and ease breathing concerns.

Who is the ideal candidate for an orthognathic surgery procedure?

The ideal candidate for an orthognathic surgery has overbite, underbite, open bite, difficulty chewing or swallowing, chronic jaw pain, TMJ pain, headache, excessive wear of the upper teeth or lower teeth, sleep apnea or other breathing concerns, or unbalanced facial symmetry. Orthognathic Surgery is not recommended for those who can utilize less invasive methods like braces or headgear.

What is the average recovery associated with an orthognathic surgery procedure?

The acute recovery phase following an orthognathic surgery procedure is up to six weeks of swelling, discomfort, bruising, and numbness. A liquid and soft diet will be needed for the first four to six weeks. Most patients return to work after a few weeks, and resume most all normal activities after six to 12 weeks.

What are the potential side effects of an orthognathic surgery procedure?

The possible side effects following an orthognathic surgery include numbness, bleeding, tooth damage, infection at the incision site, TMJ disorders, poor cosmetic outcomes, and relapse of the initial disorder.

What can someone expect from the results of an orthognathic surgery procedure?

The results of an orthognathic surgery procedure are permanent enhancements to bite and oral cavity. The final results will evolve over several months to years as the body heals.

What is the average cost of an orthognathic surgery procedure?

An Orthognathic Surgery procedure can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $40,000. The actual cost of an orthognathic surgeryis dependent upon location, board certified facial plastic surgeon, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery.