Jaw Surgery

Summary

Is jaw deformity rare?
Over 10,000,000 people in the United States have some degree of jaw deformities. In other countries this could be even higher.

What treatment is used?
Most orthognathic surgery patients undergo an initial period of orthodontic treatment to align the teeth so that they will fit properly after surgery is completed. Orthognathic surgery usually is not scheduled until the teeth have been properly aligned. Orthodontic appliances used to align teeth prior to surgery are left in place during the surgical procedure to aid in stabilizing the teeth and jawbones. After orthognathic surgery there is a period of follow-up orthodontic treatment to achieve final alignment of the teeth, thus complementing the new facial symmetry.

What is orthognathic surgery (surgical orthodontics)?
Orthognathic surgery is a form of dental surgery to correct severe cases of bad bites and jawbone abnormalities. In the treatment of dental abnormalities, an orthodontist usually corrects bad bites (malocclusion) and crooked teeth. An oral maxillofacial surgeon usually corrects abnormalities of the jaw. When both conditions exist, it is ideal to find an orthodontist and oral surgeon working together. This teamwork approach to complex dentofacial problems is providing better oral health for thousands of adults and children. Patients are rewarded with straight teeth, bright smiles and facial symmetry, a beauty of shape, form and position.

How do I know if I am a candidate for jaw surgery?
If you have a mismatch jaw, overbite, underbite, lowers jaw that protrudes too far foreword or is too small, too big. If you have a gummy smile, open bite, or your teeth are invisible when you smile. If you notice that you face is not symmetric or just not perfect, you could be a candidate.

When is orthognathic surgery required?
The upper and lower jaws are the bases upon which the teeth are aligned. When the jaws are too far apart, the proper bite cannot be achieved with braces alone. The orthodontist then embarks upon a treatment mode that plans for future surgical intervention. Orthognathic surgery is the only treatment option in these severe cases.

Do you charge for an orthognathic surgery consultation?
Yes, but is money well spent! We will spend up to an hour with you, explaining about your options. Contact our center at 1-800-206-2000 to set up an appointment today.

Is it possible to see my face through computer imaging prior to the surgery?
Cutting edge of technology now allows the cutting to be done in a computer prior to surgery: New high resolution video imaging system allows patients to see their post-operative image, while the doctor performs his surgery on the computer monitor electronically. It is quick, easy, fun and painless! The operation is performed in the computer by altering the patient's image and in just a few minutes the patient will have an impressive "before and after" picture that is worth a thousand words.

Will I need to have orthodontic treatment before and after my surgery?
Yes, in order to achieve optimal result orthodontic treatment is required.

Does orthognathic surgery require hospitalization?
Yes, but not for a long period of time. Lower jaw surgery can be done on an outpatient or short stay basis (discharge 4-6 hours after surgery). Upper jaw surgery, however, requires an over night stay. For more complex cases two nights of hospital stay is required.

Will my teeth have to be wired together?
No! In most cases using rigid fixation has eliminated jaw wiring. Plates and screws are used to join bone together. Patients return to normal function soft diet chewing shortly after surgery. Now a new resorbable bone plating system can be used in the upper jaw that vanishes after 12 months.

Are blood transfusions required?
Very rarely blood transfusion is required. However, we frequently store autologous blood (your own blood) prior to doing upper jaw surgery. Call our Center for more information.

Are there any risks with orthognathic Surgery?
No surgery is without risk. Orthognathic surgery, a marriage of both art and science, is no exception. The results of orthognathic surgery hinge on two things - the surgeon and the patient. Obviously, the ability of the surgeon and the technique that he employs are extremely important. But the patient's general health, healing ability and co-operation are equally important.

The portion of orthognathic surgery entails the usual risks inherent with any type of surgery, however, orthognathic surgery procedures are not new or experimental, they are routinely performed in our center (hence our center is called "Center for corrective Jaw Surgery"). If you or a member of your family is about to undergo orthognathic surgery treatment, simply ask us to explain the risks to set your mind at ease.

How much does orthognathic surgery cost?
Cost varies depending on the type of surgery. It may range anywhere from $5,000-30,000. Remember cost is certainly one issue but the expertise of the surgeon is also another.  We welcome educated patients and one of the main reason for such a significantly large amount of information in this site to do exactly that: to educate you first then take care of you in the most compassionate, caring way possible with the highest degree of expertise.  We invite you to visit our center and meet Dr. Madani or one of his associates for exact nature of your problem and discussion of cost of orthognathic surgery. Call our Center at 1-800-206-2000 or schedule your appointment now!

Is orthognathic surgery painful?
There is moderate discomfort and facial swelling following surgery. However, the fact that the bones are plated and secured together eliminates bony movement, hence reducing the discomfort. Some of our patients tell us that they had less pain from jaw surgery than from their wisdom teeth extractions!

What are the rewards of orthognathic surgery?
Following completion of the surgical orthodontic process, dental health is improved - no more bad bites or crooked teeth. The jawbones and profile relationships are also more stable, functional and esthetic. Facial appearance is improved. The most lasting reward is a more beautiful, healthier, and happier you!

What problems does orthognathic surgery best correct?
There are a wide variety of causes of jawbone discrepancies heredity, trauma or other developmental problems. Most commonly corrected problems include: a protruding or retruding chin; an unsightly display of gum tissue above the upper front teeth; an inability to achieve lip contact when the lips are relaxed; and overall elongation of the face.

Orthognathic surgery moves your teeth and jaws into a new position that is more balanced, functional and healthy. Not only should you be able to bite and chew better than ever before, but your appearance and speech may be enhanced, as well. The results of orthognathic surgery can have a dramatic and positive effect on many aspects of your life. So...make the most of the new you!

 Make your appointment online now for consultation & evaluation!

Make your appointment online now for consultation & evaluation.