What Is Jaw Correction Surgery?
Jaw correction surgery is an operation that allows the position of the lower jaw (mandible) and upper jaw (maxilla) bones to be surgically rearranged.
In this procedure, the jawbones are carefully cut at specific points, repositioned into their ideal alignment, and fixed with titanium plates. In this way, jaw misalignment is corrected, and a balanced facial profile is achieved.
In Which Cases Is Jaw Correction Surgery Performed?
Jaw structure disorders may be congenital in some individuals, while in other cases they may develop during the growth process. Additionally, trauma or genetic factors may also affect jaw structure.
The most common situations in which jaw correction surgery is performed are:
Receding Jaw
When the lower or upper jaw is positioned too far back, it may cause imbalance in the facial profile. This condition can also affect chewing function.
Protruding Jaw
If the lower jaw is excessively forward, a prominent protrusion may appear in the facial profile. This condition is generally corrected with orthognathic surgery.
Jaw Asymmetry
When the right and left sides of the jaw are positioned differently, facial symmetry is disrupted. Jaw balance can be restored through surgical intervention.
Open Bite
This is a condition where the upper and lower teeth do not close properly. It may negatively affect speech and chewing functions.
Crossbite
This occurs when the upper and lower teeth close in the wrong position. In the long term, it may lead to dental and jaw problems.
How Is Jaw Correction Surgery Performed?
Jaw correction surgery is generally performed under general anesthesia. The duration of the surgery may vary depending on the scope of the procedure.
The surgical process generally consists of the following stages:
- Treatment planning is performed: The patient’s facial structure, jaw position, and bite are evaluated in detail.
- Orthodontic preparation process: In many patients, orthodontic treatment with braces is applied before surgery.
- Surgical intervention is performed: The jawbones are carefully cut and repositioned appropriately.
- Fixation procedure is performed: The bones are fixed with titanium plates and screws.
- The healing process begins.
The surgery is generally performed through incisions made inside the mouth. Therefore, in most cases, there is no visible external scar.
Advantages of Jaw Correction Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is not only an aesthetic procedure. It also provides many functional benefits.
The main advantages of jaw correction surgery are:
- Balancing the facial profile
- Improving chewing function
- Correcting speech problems
- Correcting the bite
- Increasing facial symmetry
- Reducing the load on the jaw joint
For this reason, orthognathic surgery is considered both an aesthetic and functional treatment.
Recovery Process After Jaw Correction Surgery
The recovery process after jaw correction surgery may vary from patient to patient. However, in general, returning to daily life is possible within a few weeks.
There are some important points to consider during the postoperative period.
First Days
Swelling and mild pain may occur in the facial area after surgery. This condition is generally temporary.
Nutrition
During the first weeks, consuming soft or liquid foods is recommended.
Swelling and Bruising
Swelling usually decreases within the first week and largely disappears within a few weeks.
Follow-Up Appointments
Doctor check-ups are important for ensuring a healthy healing process.
The complete healing process may generally take several months.
Is Jaw Correction Surgery Risky?
As with any surgical procedure, orthognathic surgery may involve some risks. However, the risk of complications is quite low when the surgery is performed by experienced surgeons.
Possible risks may include:
- Temporary numbness
- Swelling and bruising
- Risk of infection
- Rare sensory changes
Detailed preoperative evaluation and proper surgical planning help minimize these risks.
How Long Does Jaw Correction Surgery Take?
The duration of the surgery may vary depending on the scope of the procedure.
Generally, orthognathic surgery operations can be completed within 2 to 4 hours.
In some cases, only lower jaw surgery is performed, while in other patients both the upper and lower jaws can be corrected within the same operation.
Results of Jaw Correction Surgery
After jaw correction surgery, significant improvements can be seen in both facial aesthetics and oral functions.
Following successful orthognathic surgery:
- The facial profile becomes more balanced
- Chewing function improves
- The bite is corrected
- Pressure on the jaw joint decreases
For this reason, orthognathic surgery may be an important treatment option for many patients both functionally and aesthetically.
Specialist Evaluation for Jaw Correction Surgery
In order to properly evaluate jaw structure disorders, a detailed examination should be performed by a specialist jaw surgeon.
During the examination process, the following evaluations are generally performed:
- Jaw and facial analysis
- Bite evaluation
- X-rays and 3D imaging
- Orthodontic planning
As a result of these evaluations, the most suitable treatment plan is created for the patient.
Get Information About Jaw Correction Surgery
Jaw structure disorders may cause both aesthetic and functional problems. Today, thanks to advanced surgical techniques, these problems can be successfully treated.
To get detailed information about jaw correction surgery and learn about the most suitable treatment options for you, it is recommended to undergo an evaluation by a specialist doctor.