ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY

ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY (JAW SURGERY)

What is Orthognathic Surgery?

Orthognathic surgery is a procedure performed to correct jawbone misalignments. It is used to address jaw asymmetries or bite disorders and is carried out in conjunction with orthodontic treatment.

This surgery aims to resolve functional and aesthetic problems, thereby improving the patient’s quality of life.

Since orthognathic surgery is a collaborative procedure conducted by orthodontists and maxillofacial surgeons, experienced surgeons recommended by your orthodontist will perform the surgery.

What are the stages of Orthognathic Surgery treatments?

1) Evaluation and Planning
The orthodontist and maxillofacial surgeon work together to assess the procedures needed to align the jaws in their ideal positions.

2) Orthodontic Preparation
Orthodontic treatment begins before the surgery to position the teeth correctly. This preparation phase typically lasts between 4 months and 1 year, depending on the individual case.

3) Surgical Procedure

  • Orthognathic surgery is performed under general anesthesia by plastic surgeons or maxillofacial surgeons. The jawbones are reshaped and fixed in the desired position.
  • After the surgery, there are no visible scars on the outside of the patient’s face.

4) Recovery Period

  • Patients are generally discharged the day after the surgery. During this time, pain management is provided to ensure comfort at home. The jaw is immobilized with elastic bands connecting the upper and lower teeth for the first week to allow the bones to fuse. During this period, only liquid foods are permitted.
  • After one week, you will visit your doctor for a follow-up. The use of elastics gradually decreases in the following stages.

5) Completion of Orthodontic Treatment
After surgery, final adjustments are made to align the teeth perfectly with the new jaw structure.

Can a patient recommended for orthognathic surgery be treated with orthodontics alone?
If the problem stems from the position of the jawbones, orthodontic treatment alone is generally insufficient, and orthognathic surgery becomes necessary. However, if the issue is mild and mainly caused by the misalignment of the teeth, orthodontic treatment alone may yield satisfactory results.