Orthognathic surgery is a complex procedure that corrects issues with jaw shape or placement.
Many patients feel uneasy about the prospect of jaw surgery, but its life-changing effects benefit both oral and overall health for those with certain conditions. If we recommend orthognathic surgery, we strongly believe that it will help you.
In general, a full recovery from orthognathic surgery takes approximately 9 to 12 months. After 6 to 12 weeks, you should receive clearance to resume daily activities.
About Orthognathic Surgery
The complete orthognathic surgery process takes an average of 2 to 3 years. The exact timing depends on the severity of your jaw issues.
The first step is preparing the teeth for the surgery. We will place traditional braces to help realign your teeth and achieve the best positions before the procedure.
When your surgeon and orthodontist judge that your teeth are ready, they will schedule your surgery. Ensure you have someone at home who can help care for you during the early days of healing.
The Surgical Process
You will receive general anesthesia and feel no discomfort during this procedure. Typically, your surgeon can make incisions inside your mouth to minimize facial scarring. Next, the surgeon will carefully cut the jawbone and reposition it where necessary. They use small wires, screws, and plates to attach the bones in their new positions.
Some patients need bone grafts to strengthen and increase jaw volume. The bone can come from a donor source or another part of your body. More commonly, donor or artificial bone is used.
Your surgeon will often place elastics on your braces to direct the jaw into its proper position. The elastics gently guide the jaw. You will continue to wear braces after your surgery to maintain the movement. Your braces will also keep the teeth steady and finish your treatment.
Benefits of Jaw Surgery
Orthognathic surgery benefits multiple oral health conditions as well as systemic issues. These benefits include:
- Improving self-image and quality of life
- Repairing bite issues too severe for braces alone, such as overbite, crossbite, underbite, and open bite, which can interfere with proper speech and chewing
- Realigning a protruding jaw (where the bottom jaw is in front of the top jaw)
- Correcting facial asymmetry due to jaw differences
- Helping with chronic dry mouth and mouth-breathing
- Opening the airway to reduce symptoms of sleep apnea (airway orthodontics)
Recovery from Orthognathic Surgery
As you may be aware, orthognathic surgery is a major surgical procedure that requires time and patience for healing. Over a period of 9 to 12 months, your bone will grow into its new placement.
The early weeks and months after surgery can be challenging, but your orthodontist and surgeon will be there to support you.
Tips For Successful Healing
- Nutrition: Start with an all-liquid diet. Focus on balanced nutrition. If you lack protein or other nutrients, you will have more trouble healing. Switch to a soft, easily chewed diet when your doctor allows. You may need the soft diet longer than you would with a simple tooth extraction.
- Medications: Take your prescribed medications as directed. If they are not working, consult your practitioner.
- Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco: Both of these substances can impede healing by restricting blood flow, as well as interfere with medication.
- Oral Hygiene: You will receive detailed instructions from your surgeon and orthodontist. Follow these to the letter, or you may risk painful setbacks in the healing process.
- Physical Activity: Do not lift heavy objects, including children, and conserve your energy for healing. Plan to relax at home for at least the first few weeks after your procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthognathic Surgery
Who will perform my orthognathic surgery?
Dr. Hass works with trusted local oral surgeons to plan and perform your procedure. Dr. Hass and his colleagues have years of experience with jaw surgery.
When will I be able to go back to work?
Typically, our patients go back to work or school in 1-3 weeks. Your recovery time may vary.
Hass Family Orthodontics can help you or your loved one with major procedures to improve their oral and overall health. To learn more about orthognathic surgery or any of our procedures, please get in touch with us today.