If you are considering corrective jaw surgery, you probably have many questions. What will the surgery entail? What is the recovery process like? How much does it cost? This blog post will answer some of the most common questions about jaw alignment surgery. We will also provide a detailed overview of what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

Jaw alignment surgery:

It is also called orthognathic surgery. This type of jaw surgery corrects irregularities of the jaw and face bones that can result in functional problems with chewing, speaking, and sleeping. Jaw alignment surgery can also improve your appearance by bringing your teeth and jaws into better alignment and improving the proportions of your facial features.

The most common reasons to have jaw alignment surgery are:

– functional problems with chewing, speaking, or swallowing

– sleep apnea

– an incorrect bite

– jaw joint (TMJ) pain

– cosmetic concerns

Before the surgery:

You will first need to consult with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The surgeon will examine your mouth, teeth, jaw joints, and facial structure during your consultation. They may also order X-rays or a CT scan to get a better look at your jawbone. If you and the surgeon decide that jaw alignment surgery is right for you, they will develop a specific treatment plan.

What are patients advised corrective jaw surgery?

– Functional problems: Difficulty in chewing, biting, or swallowing. If the jaw does not align properly, it can cause pain in the jaw joint and lead to TMJ disorders.

– Sleep apnea: This is a condition where your breathing is interrupted during sleep due to airway obstruction. This can be caused by an overbite or other alignment issues with the jaw.

– Incorrect bite: An incorrect bite can cause teeth to wear down unevenly, causing pain and damage to the teeth. It can also cause TMJ disorders.

– Cosmetic concerns: Some people may feel self-conscious about their appearance if their jaws are misaligned. Jaw surgery and orthodontic treatment can improve the symmetry of your face and jawline.

Orthognathic surgery- the procedure

During the surgery:

You will be given general anesthesia to keep you asleep during the surgery. The surgeon will make incisions in your mouth and jawbone to access your jaw joints. They may also need to break your jawbone to reposition it. Once they have moved your jaw, they will use screws, plates, or wires to hold it in place while it heals.

After the surgery:

You will remain in recovery for a few hours after the surgery is complete. You will likely experience some swelling and bruising around your jaw and face. You will be given pain medication to help manage any discomfort you may feel.

You will need to eat soft foods for the first few weeks after surgery as your jaw heals. You should also avoid strenuous activity or anything that could jar your jaw during this time. Most people take four to six weeks off from work or school to recover from jaw alignment surgery.

The cost of jaw alignment surgery

Jaw alignment surgery is typically covered by insurance if considered medically necessary. However, you will probably have to pay a deductible or copayment. The cost of the procedure can range from $15,000 to $30,000, depending on the extent of the surgery.

Corrective jaw surgical procedure is an effective procedure that can correct many different jaw and facial irregularities.

While corrective Orthognathic surgery is a big decision, it can significantly improve your quality of life by correcting functional problems and enhancing appearance. If you are considering jaw surgery, consult with an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon to discuss your options.

Tell me the typical recovery time for jaw surgery?

Most people take four to six weeks off from work or school to recover from upper jaw surgery. You should eat soft foods and avoid anything that could jar your jaw during this time. You will likely experience some swelling and bruising around your jaw and face. However, you will be given pain medication to help manage any discomfort you may feel.

How and when do you wire a jaw shut?

If your jaw needs to be repositioned, the surgeon will use plates and screws or wires to hold it in place while it heals. The jaw is usually wired shut for six to eight weeks after surgery. This helps ensure that the jaw remains in its new position during healing.

Orthognathic surgery can improve breathing, chewing, and speaking issues.

Jaw surgery can improve the overall appearance of your face and jaw. If you are considering jaw surgery, consult with an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon to discuss your options.

What should be expected from jaw surgery?

Some people may feel self-conscious about their appearance if their jaws or upper and lower teeth are misaligned. Jaw surgery can improve the symmetry of your face and jawline.

Does jaw surgery cause swelling?

Yes, jaw surgery can cause swelling and bruise around your jaw and face. You will be given pain medication to help manage any discomfort you may feel.

What kinds of pain medications and antibiotics are usually prescribed to a patient after jaw surgery?

After jaw surgery, you will be given pain medication and antibiotics to help with the healing process.

Is jaw surgery a major procedure?

Yes, jaw alignment surgery is an effective procedure that can correct many different jaws and unbalanced facial appearances. While jaw alignment surgery is a big decision, it can significantly improve your quality of life by correcting functional problems and enhancing your appearance. If you are considering jaw surgery, consult with an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon to discuss your options.

What materials are used in jaw surgery??

The materials used in jaw surgery depend on the specific procedure being performed. However, common materials used include screws, plates, and wires.

When can I return to work after jaw surgery?

Most people take four to six weeks off from work or school to recover from jaw alignment surgery. You should eat soft foods and avoid anything that could harm your jaw during this time.

Is there scarring after jaw surgery??

There may be some scarring after jaw surgery, but it will usually be hidden within the natural contours of your face.

What is the success rate of jaw surgery?

The success rate of jaw surgery is very high. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved. Be sure to discuss these risks with your surgeon before deciding to have jaw surgery.

What are the risks of jaw surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with jaw surgery. These risks include infection, bleeding, and reactions to anesthesia. Be sure to discuss these risks with your surgeon before deciding to have jaw surgery.

Is wiring a jaw shut painful?

Wiring your jaw shut is not usually painful. However, you may experience some discomfort when your jaw is moved into its new position.

What are the long-term effects of jaw surgery?

The long-term effects of jaw surgery are typically very positive. Oral and Maxillofacial Jaw surgery can improve the function and appearance of your jaw, face, and teeth. If you have any concerns about the long-term effects of jaw surgery, be sure to discuss them with your surgeon.

Infection after Jaw surgery

If you develop an infection after jaw surgery, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Infections can delay the healing process and cause other complications.

Is jaw realignment surgery painful?

Jaw realignment surgery is not usually painful. However, you may experience some discomfort when your jaw is moved into its new position.

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/jaw-surgery/about/pac-20384990

https://www.webmd.com/oms/corrective-jaw-surgery

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/adult-orthodontics/misaligned-jaw-and-treatment-options