Jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is a procedure performed to correct jaw abnormalities. It’s a surgical technique that can involve your upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both jaws (bimaxillary). The goal of such surgery is to improve the function and appearance of the jaws.
When jaw deformities require repositioning of both the upper and lower jaw, the procedure is called a double jaw surgery or bimaxillary osteotomy. During double jaw surgery, the surgeon will reposition the upper and lower jaws, as well as change their size by removing pieces of bones.
The decision to undergo jaw surgery should not be taken lightly. It’s a complex procedure that requires extensive planning, preparation, and recovery. It’s important to discuss your needs and goals with your surgeon before deciding to proceed with the procedure.
Jaw surgery is typically performed to correct:
- Underbite or overbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
- Facial asymmetry
- Jaw tumors
- Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)
In addition to correcting jaw deformities, jaw surgery can also improve your facial appearance and profile. The procedure can be performed on adults and children under the age of 18, however, the results of the surgery may not be fully visible until the patient reaches adulthood.
The recovery period for jaw surgery varies from patient to patient. Typically, recovery takes anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the type of procedure performed. During the recovery period, patients should rest and take it easy. It’s important to follow the post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon to ensure proper healing.
Jaw surgery can be a major undertaking, but the potential benefits far outweigh the risks. It can provide major improvements to an individual’s facial profile, as well as correct jaw deformities and improve jaw function. If you’re considering jaw surgery, it’s important to speak with an experienced surgeon to make an informed decision.
Double Jaw Surgery Benefits
Corrects Jaw Deformities
Double jaw surgery is an innovative procedure used for correcting jaw deformities. It is a safe, effective and long-term solution to treat misalignments of the jaw and teeth. This type of surgery helps restore proper jaw alignment, allowing a person to eat, speak and smile comfortably.
Double jaw surgery is used to correct several types of jaw misalignments, including deep overbite, underbite, open bite, sideways overlapping of the jaws, and asymmetric jaws. In this procedure, the surgeon will move or rotate the jaws to achieve the desired result.
Balances Facial Features
Are you struggling with facial asymmetry due to jaw misalignment, incorrect jaw size, a small chin, or a gummy smile? If so, double jaw surgery could help you correct these issues, thus balancing your facial features.
Double jaw surgery is an excellent option for those who want to balance facial features and correct jaw misalignment, incorrect jaw size, a small chin, or a gummy smile.
The procedure involves the surgeon making precise cuts in the jawbone and then manipulating the jawbone to reshape and realign it. This process can be quite complex, and it is important to choose an experienced and skilled surgeon to perform the procedure.
Improves Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that is characterized by brief pauses in breathing during sleep. During these pauses, the airway becomes blocked, preventing air from reaching the lungs and causing oxygen levels to drop.
Many people suffering from OSA also experience snoring, impaired concentration, and memory loss. OSA can be dangerous and is associated with an increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and high blood pressure.
One of the most popular treatments is maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) surgery. This procedure involves the shifting of both the upper and lower jawbones, increasing the size of the space in the airways and allowing more air to reach the lungs.
Although MMA surgery may not eliminate OSA completely, it has been shown to be highly successful in improving symptoms and allowing people to sleep better.