Description

Familiarity with Treatment

Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, is a surgical procedure that involves repositioning the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both to correct significant dental and skeletal abnormalities. It aims to improve the alignment of the jaws, correct bite issues, and enhance facial aesthetics. Successful outcomes in modern orthognathic surgery rely on close collaboration between the surgeon and the orthodontist across all stages of treatment, from preoperative planning to finalization of occlusion.

Procedure

The orthognathic surgery procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: The patient is placed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort and safety during the surgery.
2. Incisions: Incisions are made inside the mouth along the gum line to access the upper and/or lower jaws.
3. Bone Cutting: The surgeon carefully cuts the maxilla, mandible, or both in predetermined locations to allow for repositioning.
4. Repositioning: The upper and/or lower jaws are repositioned according to the treatment plan to correct the dental and skeletal abnormalities.
5. Fixation: Titanium plates and screws are used to secure the repositioned jaws in their new positions.
6. Closure: The incisions are closed with sutures, and the patient is moved to the recovery area.

Who is it Suitable for?

Orthognathic surgery is suitable for individuals with significant dental and skeletal abnormalities that cannot be corrected through orthodontic treatment alone. It is recommended for individuals with malocclusion, severe overbite or underbite, facial asymmetry, and other complex jaw discrepancies.

Who is it Not Suitable for?

Orthognathic surgery may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or those who are not in good overall health. Additionally, individuals with unrealistic expectations or those who are unable to commit to the necessary preoperative and postoperative care may not be suitable candidates for this procedure.

Advantages

• Improved Bite and Function: Orthognathic surgery can correct severe bite issues, improving the overall function of the jaws and facilitating proper chewing and speaking.
• Enhanced Facial Aesthetics: Repositioning the jaws can improve facial symmetry and balance, enhancing the overall appearance of the face.
• Psychological Benefits: Correcting dental and skeletal abnormalities through orthognathic surgery can boost self-confidence and improve quality of life.

Complications

• Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of postoperative infections.
• Nerve Damage: Nerves in the jaws and surrounding areas may be affected during the surgery, leading to temporary or permanent numbness, tingling, or altered sensation.
• Relapse: There is a risk of relapse, particularly when significant jaw movement is involved.
• Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after the surgery is a potential complication, although it is rare.

Preoperative Care

Before undergoing orthognathic surgery, a comprehensive evaluation is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. This may include a review of the patient’s medical history, dental examination, and imaging techniques (such as X-rays or CT scans) to assess the dental and skeletal abnormalities. Preoperative care may also involve orthodontic treatment to align the teeth properly before the surgery.

Postoperative Care

After orthognathic surgery, postoperative care may involve managing pain and discomfort, as well as following specific instructions provided by the oral and maxillofacial surgeon. This may include taking prescribed medications, practicing good oral hygiene, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process. Patients are typically advised to follow a soft-food or liquid diet initially and may be prescribed painkillers, an antiseptic mouthwash, and antibiotics for the first few postoperative days.