Types of Jaw Surgery

There are three primary types of orthognathic surgery used based on the condition of your jaw.

• Maxillary Osteotomy: This procedure is done to correct the upper jaw (maxilla). It fixes issues like open bite, crossbite, or misalignment of the lower jaw.
• Mandibular Osteotomy: This surgery is performed on the lower jaw (mandible) to reposition it and address issues such as underbite, overbite, or misalignment with the upper jaw.
• Bimaxillary Osteotomy: This surgery is done to correct both the upper and lower jaws in case of more severe misalignments or facial asymmetry.
• Genioplasty: It reshapes or repositions the chin. In addition, it helps to increase facial balance and harmony and is often performed in conjunction with other jaw surgeries.
• Segmental Jaw Surgery: This involves dividing the jawbone into segments to correct specific portions, often used for dental alignment or complex deformities.
• Distraction Osteogenesis: A technique that greatly expands the jawbone over time, used for congenital deformities or post-traumatic conditions.
• TMJ Surgery: This surgery focuses on treating jaw joint disorders, relieving pain, and enhancing mobility, typically for conditions such as arthritis or joint dysfunction.

Key Takeaways

• Type of Procedure: Invasive surgical procedure
• Duration: 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity
• Anesthesia Used: General anesthesia
• Recovery Time: 6 to 12 weeks, with restrictions on heavy activity
• Success Rate: High success rate, with most patients experiencing significant improvement in function and appearance
• Side Effects: Includes temporary numbness or swelling, which typically resolves over time.

What Conditions Does Jaw Surgery Treat?

Orthognathic surgery, or jaw surgery, is recommended for individuals with significant jaw and facial irregularities that affect both function and aesthetics. These irregularities can result from developmental issues, genetics, trauma, or conditions like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Indications for orthognathic surgery include various conditions treated by Jaw Surgery specialists.

• Malocclusions
• Facial Asymmetry
• Difficulty Chewing
• Difficulty Speaking
• Breathing Difficulties
• TMJ Disorders
• Open Bite
• Deep Bite
• Overjet
• Underjet
• Lip Closure Issues
• Jaw Pain
• Aesthetic Concerns
• Impaired Oral Hygiene
• Psychological Impact

Specialist Part of Orthognathic Surgery

Orthognathic surgery, a specialized and comprehensive procedure, involves a multidisciplinary approach that requires the expertise of various healthcare professionals.

Here are the critical specialists who are interested in treating orthognathic surgery:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
• Orthodontist
• Dentist
• Prosthodontist
• Medical Anesthesiologist
• Radiologist
• Speech Therapist
• Nutritionist/Dietitian
• Psychologist/Counselor
• Otolaryngologist (ENT Specialist)

Preparing for Orthognathic Surgery Procedure (Jaw Surgery)

Preparing for orthognathic surgery involves several essential steps to ensure a smooth and successful surgical experience and recovery. Here's a guide to help you prepare:

• Consultation with Oral Surgeon: Consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon specializing in orthognathic jaw surgery.
• Orthodontic Assessment: If you haven't already, consult with an orthodontist. They will assess your dental alignment and work on pre-surgical orthodontic treatment to prepare your teeth for surgery.
• Medical Evaluation: Your oral surgeon will likely require a complete medical evaluation. Inform them about your medical history, current medications, allergies, and any existing medical conditions.
• Imaging Studies: You'll undergo various imaging studies, such as X-rays, CT scans, and 3D scans.
• Treatment Plan Discussion: Your oral surgeon and orthodontist will collaborate on a comprehensive treatment plan outlining the surgical movements needed for optimal results.

Orthognathic or Jaw Surgery Procedure

Orthognathic surgery, or jaw surgery, is designed to correct structural issues in the jaw and face, improving function and appearance. It's a well-coordinated process involving detailed evaluation, orthodontics, and surgical precision.

Here's what the procedure typically involves:

• Comprehensive Evaluation: The process begins with thoroughly assessing the patient's condition. This includes detailed X-rays, scans, photographs, and dental impressions. These images help create a precise three-dimensional model of the patient's facial and jaw structures.
• Collaborative Treatment Planning: Oral and maxillofacial surgeons collaborate closely with orthodontists to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. The plan outlines the movements and adjustments required for the upper and lower jaws to achieve proper alignment.
• Orthodontic Preparation: Before the surgical phase, patients often undergo orthodontic treatment to align their teeth properly. Braces are used to position the teeth to complement the anticipated surgical changes.
• Surgical Procedure: On the day of surgery, the patient is placed under general anaesthesia. The oral and maxillofacial surgeon makes incisions inside the mouth, usually along the gum line, to access the jaw bones. Depending on the patient's specific needs, the surgeon may need to reposition the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both.

Upper Jaw Surgery (Maxillary Osteotomy)

This procedure targets the upper jaw to correct alignment, improve bite, and address facial symmetry issues. It's a key part of jaw surgery for many patients.

• The upper jaw is carefully separated from the skull, allowing the surgeon to reposition it based on the treatment plan.
• The jaw is secured in its new position using specialized surgical plates, screws, or wires that promote stability and healing.

Lower Jaw Surgery (Mandibular Osteotomy)

When the lower jaw is misaligned, mandibular osteotomy helps shift it into a healthier, more functional position. This improves bite and overall jaw harmony.

• Like upper jaw surgery, the lower jaw is cut and repositioned as needed.
• Surgical hardware is used to fix the jaw in its new alignment.

Closure and Healing

After surgery, careful closure and post-operative care are vital for healing. Recovery protocols help prevent complications and ensure the best outcomes.

• After the repositioning, the incisions are closed using dissolvable sutures.
• The surgical wounds are covered with gauze to aid in healing.

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Benefits and Risks Associated with Orthognathic Surgery

Benefits

• Corrects jaw alignment: Surgery addresses problems that can not be fixed with orthodontics alone.
• Improved function: Proper jaw alignment may make eating, speaking, and breathing easier.
• Enhanced appearance: Jaw surgery can significantly improve facial aesthetics by realigning the jaw.

Risks

• Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection.
• Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal, but should be managed by the surgical team.
• Nerve damage: Temporary numbness around the jaw area is possible, though it resolves over time.
• Pain and swelling: These are common post-surgery side effects, but they generally subside with proper care.

Post-Surgery Care or Recovery Time After Jaw Surgery

The Jaw surgery recovery period is a crucial phase that requires patience, careful adherence to postoperative instructions, and support from your healthcare team and loved ones.

Here's what you can expect during the Jaw surgery recovery process:

• Hospital Stay: Depending on the complexity of the surgery, you might need to stay overnight in the hospital or surgical centre for observation and initial recovery.
• Swelling and Discomfort: Swelling and discomfort are common after orthognathic Jaw surgery. Cold compresses and prescribed pain medications can help manage these symptoms.
• Diet: Initially, your diet will be limited to soft foods or liquids. As healing progresses, you'll gradually transition to a regular diet.
• Oral Care: Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential. Follow your surgeon's instructions for rinsing and cleaning your mouth to prevent infections.
• Medications: Take prescribed medications as your surgeon directs, including pain relievers and antibiotics.
• Follow-up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your oral surgeon and orthodontist to monitor healing and progress.

Lifestyle Changes For Quick Recovery

After undergoing orthognathic surgery, specific lifestyle changes can help facilitate a smoother recovery process and optimize the procedure results. These temporary adjustments support your healing, comfort, and overall well-being.

Here are some lifestyle changes to consider:

• Dietary Adjustments: Start with a soft or liquid-based diet, gradually reintroducing solids as recovery permits.
• Oral Care: Maintain excellent oral hygiene to prevent infections and support healing.
• Medication Management: Adhere to prescribed medications for controlling pain, swelling, and discomfort.
• Equipment: Utilize any necessary equipment, while paying attention to the equipment and the individual, such as wheelchairs and prostheses.
• Follow-Up Appointments: When possible, attend all necessary follow-up appointments to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed regularly.
• Physical Activity: Avoid vigorous physical activities initially and gradually incorporate light exercises.
• Sleeping Posture: For the first few weeks, try to sleep with your head elevated to minimize swelling.
• Speech and Communication: Speech may be temporarily affected, but everything will return to normal over time; consider speech therapy if needed.
• Stress Control: Managing stress and emotions can significantly influence health and recovery.
• Protect Incisions: Keep healing wounds from direct sunlight to prevent pigmentation changes.
• Hydration and Nutrition: Hydration and nutrition are also essential for recovery.
• Avoid Smoking and Drinking: Refrain from smoking and drinking, as they can interfere with the healing process.
• Regular Follow-up with the Orthodontist: Continue with orthodontic treatment for proper bite alignment post-surgery.