What is Orthognathic (Corrective Jaw) Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is corrective surgery of the top or bottom jaw. It can be used to improve facial aesthetics and improve occlusion (bite) so that patients are able to chew and speak with ease. Orthognathic surgery is usually performed in conjunction with an Orthodontist.
In certain cases, Orthognathic surgery can also be used to treated obstructive sleep apnea by opening the airway.
Why May Orthognathic Surgery Be Required?
There several reasons patients may require and benefit from orthognathic surgery, including:
- Receded chin or jaw
- Overprojected chin or jaw
- Difficulty with chewing/biting or speech
- Malocclusion (inability for the top and bottom teeth to meet properly)
- Inability to close the lips together without effort
- Obstructive sleep apnoea (breathing problems during sleep)
What Does Orthognathic Surgery Involve?
At your initial consultation, Dr Oztel will take a thorough history and comprehensive examination, review x-rays and CT scans your dentist or orthodontist has organised. Dr Oztel will determine what your goals are and how orthognathic surgery may benefit you.
Dr Oztel will discuss each your treatment options, the benefits and risks of each and answer any questions you may have. In particular, he will discuss whether you would benefit single or double jaw surgery, and whether a genioplasty is required.
Prior to orthognathic surgery, you will often require braces for a period, to prepare your teeth and jaws for surgery. Depending on your individual situation, braces may be placed after your surgery, or you may need anywhere from 6 to 18 months of braces pre-operatively.
Dr Oztel uses 3D virtual surgery planning and custom titanium plates and guides for your surgery. This is to ensure that that the operation is performed with precision and accuracy. Depending on the complexity of the operation, the procedure may take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours.
What to Expect after Surgery
Orthognathic surgery requires careful planning and care. Dr Oztel will see you over several appointments leading up to the operation to ensure you have all your questions answered and that you are prepared for the procedure.
After the procedure you will be in hospital for 1-2 nights. You will maintain a soft diet for 6 weeks after the operation to ensure the bones have healed. Dr Oztel may place elastic bands on your braces after the operation and your orthodontist will adjust these this to give you the best bite possible.
If you have any questions or concerns in the post-operative period, Dr Oztel will be available to discuss these with you.
If you would like more information on Orthognathic Surgery, please visit the British Orthodontic Society Website.
About
Dr Mehmet Oztel
Dr Oztel is an Australian trained contemporary Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. He has completed 17 years of study and training in Medicine, Dentistry and Surgery specialising in the surgical management of the teeth, jaws and face.
