Corrective Jaw Surgery
Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, is a specialized surgical procedure performed to correct structural or functional issues with the jaws and facial bones. This type of surgery is often recommended when orthodontic treatment alone cannot effectively address significant jaw misalignments, malocclusions (improper bite), or facial asymmetry. Orthognathic surgery aims to improve both the function and aesthetics of the jaw and facial structures.
Orthognathic surgery can address a range of conditions, including:
Malocclusions: Severe underbites (prognathism), overbites (retrognathism), and crossbites that affect proper biting, chewing, and speaking.
Facial Asymmetry: Significant differences in the size, position, or alignment of the jaws that result in an imbalanced facial appearance.
Breathing Difficulties: When jaw misalignments contribute to obstructive sleep apnea or other breathing problems.
Chewing and Speech Difficulties: Jaw misalignments that impact the ability to chew food effectively or produce clear speech.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: In cases where TMJ dysfunction is related to jaw misalignments.
The orthognathic surgery process typically involves the following steps:
1. Evaluation and Planning:
Initial consultation: A comprehensive assessment is conducted by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, along with orthodontists and other specialists, to determine the nature and severity of the jaw discrepancy.
3D Imaging: Advanced imaging techniques such as CT scans and digital models help create a detailed treatment plan, including virtual simulations of the surgical outcome.
2. Preoperative Orthodontic Treatment:
Before surgery, the patient often undergoes orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and prepare them for the surgical realignment of the jaws.
3. Surgery:
Anesthesia: The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort and safety.
Incisions: Depending on the specific case, incisions are made inside the mouth (intraoral approach) or outside, along the natural creases of the face (extraoral approach).
Bone Repositioning: The surgeon carefully repositions the jaws to achieve the desired alignment, using specialized instruments and techniques.
Fixation: Small screws, plates, or wires may be used to stabilize the repositioned bone segments during healing.
Soft Tissue Adjustments: In some cases, soft tissues such as the lips or cheeks may be adjusted to achieve balanced facial proportions.
4. Recovery and Follow-Up:
After surgery, the patient's jawbones need time to heal and stabilize. This typically involves a period of limited jaw movement and a soft or liquid diet.
Postoperative Orthodontic Treatment: Orthodontic adjustments continue to fine-tune the bite and ensure optimal alignment as the jaws heal.
Orthognathic surgery can significantly improve the patient's quality of life by addressing functional and aesthetic concerns related to jaw misalignments. It requires close collaboration between oral and maxillofacial surgeons, orthodontists, and other healthcare professionals to achieve successful outcomes. Patients considering orthognathic surgery should have a thorough discussion with their surgical team to understand the procedure, expected outcomes, and postoperative recovery process.
