Orthognathic Surgery
Jaw surgery is carried out to reposition one or both jaws to correct facial and jaw irregularities. It will leave the teeth in a better position and make it easier to chew, speak and breathe. There are many candidates for this procedure, such as those who have difficulty chewing, speaking, making their lips meet or have jaw pain, an open bite, facial injury, receding or protruding jaw or sleep apnea.
Your orthodontist is responsible for moving the teeth, the surgeon will reposition the jaws and your dentist is responsible for care before and after surgery. Some people wish to have additional procedures done to continually improve their appearances, like the nose or eye surgery. These options can be discussed with your surgeon.
For 6-18 months, you may need to wear braces and consult your orthodontist regularity. During lower jaw surgery, the rear portion of the jaw is moved forward or backward depending on the desired result. In upper jaw surgery, the bone can be moved forward, backward, raised or lowered. The bone may also be added or removed to achieve proper alignment and stability. If desired, other facial bones can be augmented or reduced to improve balance. Most incisions are made inside the mouth and therefore leave no external scars.