Understanding Jaw Surgery: What You Need to Know

Jaw surgery, medically known as orthognathic surgery, is a specialized procedure aimed at correcting irregularities of the jaw bones and realigning the jaws and teeth to improve both function and appearance هزینه جراحی فک. This surgery is often recommended for people whose jaws do not meet properly or who suffer from severe malocclusion (bad bite), which cannot be corrected with orthodontics alone.


Why is Jaw Surgery Needed?

Jaw surgery is typically considered when there are significant problems related to:

  • Bite issues: Misaligned jaws can cause difficulty chewing, biting, or speaking.

  • Facial imbalance: Disproportionate jaw size or position can affect facial aesthetics and self-confidence.

  • Breathing problems: In some cases, jaw irregularities contribute to obstructive sleep apnea or chronic mouth breathing.

  • Jaw pain or dysfunction: TMJ disorders or chronic jaw pain can be linked to jaw misalignment.

  • Trauma or injury: Previous accidents might cause jaw deformities requiring surgical correction.


Types of Jaw Surgery

Jaw surgery can involve the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both. Common procedures include:

  • Maxillary osteotomy: Moving the upper jaw to correct an open bite or improve alignment.

  • Mandibular osteotomy: Repositioning the lower jaw to fix underbite or overbite.

  • Genioplasty: Chin surgery to improve the shape and balance of the lower face.

  • Segmental osteotomy: Moving sections of the jaw for complex bite corrections.


The Surgical Process

  1. Consultation and Planning: The journey begins with an evaluation by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and often an orthodontist. Imaging studies like X-rays, CT scans, and 3D modeling help plan the surgery precisely.

  2. Pre-Surgical Orthodontics: Braces are usually placed to align the teeth properly before surgery.

  3. Surgery: Under general anesthesia, the surgeon makes incisions inside the mouth to avoid visible scars. The jaw bones are cut, repositioned, and fixed with plates or screws.

  4. Recovery: Hospital stays typically last 1–3 days. Swelling, discomfort, and limited jaw movement are common but improve over weeks.

  5. Post-Surgical Orthodontics: After healing, braces may be worn to fine-tune teeth alignment.


Benefits of Jaw Surgery

  • Improved bite and chewing function.

  • Enhanced facial symmetry and aesthetics.

  • Relief from jaw pain and TMJ disorders.

  • Better speech clarity.

  • Improved breathing and reduction of sleep apnea symptoms.


Risks and Considerations

As with any surgery, jaw surgery carries risks such as infection, nerve injury leading to numbness, bleeding, or relapse of jaw position. It’s crucial to discuss these risks with your surgical team.


Who is a Candidate?

Ideal candidates include individuals with:

  • Severe malocclusion not correctable with braces alone.

  • Jaw misalignment causing functional or aesthetic problems.

  • Good overall health and realistic expectations.


Conclusion

Jaw surgery is a transformative procedure that goes beyond cosmetic improvements to address essential functions such as chewing, speaking, and breathing. If you struggle with jaw pain, bite issues, or facial imbalance, consulting with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon can help determine if jaw surgery is the right solution for you.