Jaw surgery — also known as orthognathic surgery — is a medical procedure that corrects problems with the structure, alignment, or position of the jaws. It’s not just about improving appearance; jaw surgery can have a major impact on breathing, chewing, speaking, and overall oral health هزینه جراحی فک.
Let’s explore what jaw surgery involves, when it’s needed, and what patients can expect.
📌 What Is Jaw Surgery?
Jaw surgery is performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons to reposition the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both. It is often done in partnership with orthodontic treatment like braces.
The goal is to fix structural issues that can’t be corrected with braces alone — particularly those involving how the jaws fit together or how the face looks.
🦷 When Is Jaw Surgery Needed?
Not everyone with jaw issues needs surgery. But in certain cases, surgery is the best or only solution.
You may be a candidate for jaw surgery if you have:
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Severe underbite, overbite, or open bite
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Difficulty biting, chewing, or swallowing
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Chronic jaw pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues
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Speech difficulties linked to jaw alignment
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Sleep apnea caused by jaw position
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A receding chin or protruding jaw
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Facial asymmetry from genetics, trauma, or disease
🛠️ Types of Jaw Surgery
Jaw surgery can be performed on the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. Here are the main types:
1. Maxillary Osteotomy – (Upper Jaw Surgery)
Used to fix issues like an open bite or crossbite, or to correct vertical misalignment of the face.
2. Mandibular Osteotomy – (Lower Jaw Surgery)
Adjusts a receding or protruding lower jaw.
3. Bimaxillary Osteotomy – (Double Jaw Surgery)
Involves both the upper and lower jaws for more complex problems.
4. Genioplasty – (Chin Surgery)
Often combined with other jaw surgeries to improve balance and profile.
⚙️ How the Process Works
Jaw surgery isn’t a quick fix. It typically involves several phases:
✅ 1. Orthodontic Preparation
Braces are worn for 12–18 months before surgery to align the teeth properly.
✅ 2. Surgical Procedure
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia in a hospital. The jaw bones are repositioned and secured with screws, plates, or wires.
✅ 3. Recovery & Healing
Initial healing takes about 6 weeks, but full recovery can take 9–12 months. Patients follow a special diet and gradually return to normal activities.
💡 Benefits of Jaw Surgery
Many patients report life-changing results after jaw surgery, including:
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A more functional bite
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Improved facial symmetry and aesthetics
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Better speech and chewing
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Relief from jaw pain or TMJ disorders
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Reduced or resolved sleep apnea
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Boosted self-confidence
⚠️ Risks and Recovery Considerations
Like any major surgery, jaw surgery carries some risks:
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Swelling and bruising
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Numbness in the lips or face (usually temporary)
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Infection or bleeding
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Relapse (if post-op instructions aren’t followed)
Most of these risks are manageable with proper care and follow-up.
🤔 Is Jaw Surgery Right for You?
If you’ve been struggling with jaw-related issues that braces alone can’t fix, it’s worth consulting an orthodontist and an oral surgeon. Through detailed imaging, examination, and bite analysis, they can determine whether jaw surgery is appropriate.
📝 Final Thoughts
Jaw surgery is a big step — but for many, it’s one that leads to better health, improved appearance, and a dramatically improved quality of life. While the journey takes time and commitment, the long-term rewards are often well worth it.
If you think you might be a candidate, talk to a specialist. With the right care team, a better bite and brighter smile could be closer than you think.