What Is Jaw Correction Surgery?
Jaw correction surgery is a procedure that involves surgically repositioning the lower jaw (mandible) and upper jaw (maxilla) bones.
During this procedure, the jaw bones are carefully cut at specific points to achieve the ideal position and are then secured with titanium plates. This corrects any misalignment in the jaw structure and achieves a balanced appearance in the facial profile.
In Which Cases Is Jaw Correction Surgery Performed?
While jaw structure abnormalities may be present from birth in some individuals, they can also develop during the growth process. Additionally, trauma or genetic factors can also affect the jaw structure.
The most common situations in which jaw correction surgery is performed are as follows:
Jaw Retrusion
A receding lower or upper jaw can cause an imbalance in the facial profile. This condition may also affect chewing function.
Jaw Protrusion
If the lower jaw is excessively forward, a prominent protrusion may form in the facial profile. This condition is typically corrected through orthognathic surgery.
Jaw Asymmetry
When the right and left sides of the jaw are in different positions, it disrupts facial symmetry. Surgical intervention can restore jaw balance.
Open Bite
This is a condition where the upper and lower teeth do not meet. This can negatively affect speech and chewing functions.
Crossbite
This is when the upper and lower teeth meet in an incorrect position. Over time, this can lead to dental and jaw problems.
How Is Jaw Correction Surgery Performed?
Jaw correction surgery is typically 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 steps:
- Treatment planning is conducted: The patient’s facial structure, jaw position, and bite are evaluated in detail.
- Orthodontic preparation: In many cases, orthodontic treatment with braces is performed prior to surgery.
- Surgical intervention is performed: The jaw bones are cut in a controlled manner and repositioned.
- Fixation is performed: The bones are secured using titanium plates and screws.
- The healing process begins
The surgery is typically performed through incisions made inside the mouth. Therefore, in most cases, no visible scar forms on the outside.
Advantages of Jaw Correction Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is not merely an aesthetic procedure. It also offers numerous functional benefits.
The primary advantages of jaw correction surgery are as follows:
- Balancing of the facial profile
- Improvement in chewing function
- Correction of speech problems
- Improvement in bite alignment
- Increased facial symmetry
- Reduction in the load on the jaw joint
For this reason, orthognathic surgery is considered both an aesthetic and a functional treatment.
Recovery Process After Jaw Correction Surgery
The recovery process after jaw correction surgery may vary from patient to patient. However, in general, a return to daily life is possible within a few weeks.
There are some important points to consider during the post-operative period.
The First Few Days
Swelling and mild pain may occur in the facial area after surgery. This is usually temporary.
Diet
Consuming soft or liquid foods is recommended during the first few weeks.
Swelling and Bruising
Swelling typically subsides within the first week and largely disappears within a few weeks.
Follow-Up Visits
Follow-up visits with your doctor are important to ensure the healing process is progressing properly.
The full recovery process can generally take several months.
Is Jaw Correction Surgery Risky?
As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with orthognathic surgery. 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
- Rarely, changes in sensation
A 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 can be completed in 2 to 4 hours.
In some cases, only the lower jaw is operated on, while in others, both the upper and lower jaws can be corrected during the same procedure.
Results of Jaw Correction Surgery
Significant improvements in both facial aesthetics and oral function can be observed following jaw correction surgery.
Following a successful orthognathic surgery:
- The facial profile becomes more balanced
- Chewing function improves
- Bite alignment improves
- Pressure on the jaw joint decreases
For these reasons, orthognathic surgery can be an important treatment option for many patients, both functionally and aesthetically.
Specialist Evaluation for Jaw Correction Surgery
A detailed examination by a specialist maxillofacial surgeon is necessary to properly assess abnormalities in the jaw structure.
The following evaluations are typically performed during the examination:
- Jaw and facial analysis
- Bite assessment
- X-rays and 3D imaging
- Orthodontic planning
Based on these evaluations, the most suitable treatment plan is developed for the patient. Based on these evaluations, the most suitable treatment plan is developed for the patient.
Learn More About Jaw Correction Surgery
Jaw structure abnormalities can cause both aesthetic and functional issues. Thanks to advanced surgical techniques available today, these problems can be successfully treated.
To obtain detailed information about jaw correction surgery and learn about the treatment options suitable for you, it is recommended to undergo an evaluation by a specialist.
