Orthognathic | Jaw Surgery
Orthognathic surgery, commonly known as jaw surgery, is a specialized procedure to correct various jaw and facial structure irregularities. This procedure addresses functional issues such as difficulties with chewing, speaking, and breathing and aesthetic concerns related to facial balance and symmetry. Orthognathic surgery is a collaborative effort between oral and maxillofacial surgeons, orthodontists, and other medical professionals to achieve optimal functional and aesthetic outcomes for individuals with jaw abnormalities.
Types of Jaw Surgery
Jaw surgery is sometimes called orthognathic surgery and is conducted to straighten the teeth and jawbones, allowing for improved function and facial aesthetics. Some of the main Jaw surgery types are:
- Maxillary Osteotomy : This procedure relates to the upper jaw (maxilla). It fixes issues such as an open bite, crossbite, or severely recessed or protruded upper jaw.
- Mandibular osteotomy : This surgery is performed on the lower jaw (mandible) to reposition the jaw to address issues such as underbite, overbite, or misalignment with the upper jaw.
- Genioplasty : It reshapes or repositions the chin. In addition, it acts to increase facial balance and harmony and is generally performed together with other jaw surgeries.
- Bimaxillary Osteotomy : In this combined surgery, both the upper and lower jaws are moved to correct more severe misalignments or facial asymmetry.
- 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 gingerly expands the jawbone over time, used for congenital deformities or post traumatically.
- TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Surgery: This surgery focuses on treating disorders of the jaw joint, relieving pain, and enhancing mobility, usually for conditions such as arthritis or joint dysfunction.
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Jaw Surgery Procedure
Orthognathic surgery, commonly called jaw surgery, is a complex procedure to correct various abnormalities in the jaw and facial structures. The surgical process involves carefully planned upper and lower jaw movements to achieve optimal alignment and balance. Here's an overview of what happens during orthognathic or jaw surgery:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Upper Jaw Surgery (Maxillary Osteotomy):
- 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): 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.
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Closure and Healing: After the repositioning, the incisions are closed using dissolvable sutures. The surgical wounds are covered with gauze to aid in healing.
- The cost of jaw surgery varies widely depending on factors such as the complexity of the procedure, location, and healthcare provider.
- Long-term side effects of jaw surgery may include changes in sensation, difficulty with jaw movement, uneven bite, and potential nerve damage.
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:
Conditions Treated by Jaw Surgery
- 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
Who will treat for 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
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:
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Consultation with Oral Surgeon: Consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon specializing in orthognathic jaw surgery.
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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.
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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.
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Imaging Studies: You'll undergo various imaging studies, such as X-rays, CT scans, and 3D scans.
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Treatment Plan Discussion: Your oral surgeon and orthodontist will collaborate on a comprehensive treatment plan outlining the surgical movements needed for optimal results.
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Recovery after Jaw Surgery
The 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 recovery process:
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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.
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Swelling and Discomfort: Swelling and discomfort are joint after orthognathic Jaw surgery. Cold compresses and prescribed pain medications can help manage these symptoms.
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Diet: Initially, your diet will be limited to soft foods or liquids. As healing progresses, you'll gradually transition to a regular diet.
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Oral Care: Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential. Follow your surgeon's instructions for rinsing and cleaning your mouth to prevent infections.
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Medications: Take prescribed medications as your surgeon directs, including pain relievers and antibiotics.
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Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your oral surgeon and orthodontist to monitor healing and progress.
Lifestyle Changes after Jaw Surgery
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: Initiate with a soft or liquid-based diet, gradually reintroducing solids as recovery allows.
- Oral Care: Keep a top-notch oral hygiene to avoid infections and aid healing.
- Medication Management: Follow prescribed medications for controlling pain, swelling, and discomfort.
- Equipment: Utilize any required equipment, but attention must be paid to both the equipment and the individual, such as wheelchairs and prostheses. Follow-Up Appointments: When practical, attend all needed follow up appointments to periodically monitor progress and adjust accordingly.
- Physical Activity: Avoid vigorous physical endeavors at first and slowly incorporate light exercises.
- Sleeping Posture: For the first few weeks try to sleep with the head elevated to minimize the swelling.
- Speech and Communication Speech may be impacted temporarily with time everything will be back to normal if needed consider speech therapy.
- Stress Control: Managing stress and emotions can have a significant impact on health and recovery.
- Protects incisions: Keep healing wounds out of direct sunlight to avoid pigmentation changes
- You Cannot Forget about Hydration and Nutrition: Hydration and nutrition are also significant for recovery.
- Do Not Smoking and Drinking: Do not smoke and do not drink, because it can interfere with your healing process.
- Regular Follow Up With The Orthodontist: Continue with orthodontic treatment for proper bite alignment post surgery.
