What happens orthognathic surgery?

The surgery used to correct a severe malocclusion from a misaligned jaw is called orthognathic surgery. This includes procedures to move the upper jaw or maxilla forward, backward, or even to widen it. It also includes procedures to move the lower jaw or mandible rotationally to correct asymmetry, forward or backward.

Why is orthognathic surgery done?

Orthognathic surgery may be indicated when the patient has significant skeletal abnormalities in addition to a dental malocclusion. These procedures, usually performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in a hospital setting, involve surgical realignment of the jaws or repositioning of dentoalveolar segments.

When is orthognathic surgery needed?

Jaw surgery may be necessary to correct a variety of abnormalities. If the patient has an open bite, in which space remains between the jaws even when the mouth is closed, surgery may be required. Additionally, a pronounced underbite or a recessed lower jaw can also be fixed through surgery.

Is orthognathic surgery painful?

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so there is no pain during surgery. Patients usually experience pain after the anesthesia wears off, which can last for a few days.

Does orthognathic surgery change your face?

Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic (or-thog-NATH-ik) surgery, corrects irregularities of the jaw bones and realigns the jaws and teeth to improve the way they work. Making these corrections may also improve your facial appearance.

How much does an overbite surgery cost?

Overbite Surgery Cost Overbite surgery costs usually range between $20,000 to $40,000. Surgery for temporomandibular joint dysfunction can cost up to $50,000. Patients with health insurance may have orthognathic surgery covered in some cases.

Is orthognathic surgery elective?

Because orthognathic surgery to correct facial disproportion is performed as an elective procedure, the surgical team should make every attempt to control blood loss and reduce the need for blood transfusion.

Can you eat after jaw surgery?

After surgery, it is very important to eat and drink enough to help you heal. You will need to follow a liquid or pureed diet until your jaw has healed. This usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks. Your surgeon will tell you when you can eat regular food.

How long is recovery after orthognathic surgery?

Recovery time for orthognathic surgery is six weeks. Most doctors recommend patients take two weeks off of work or school following their surgery. Complete jaw healing takes up to three months.

When can I shave after jaw surgery?

Do not shave the area around the incision for at least four to five days after the sutures have been removed. You may wash your hair as you normally would.

What is orthognathic surgery and how does it work?

What is orthognathic surgery? Orthognathic surgery, or jaw straightening surgery, involves a spectrum of surgical procedures on the upper jaw, lower jaw and chin, to improve both form and function.

Does my child need orthognathic surgery?

Orthognathic surgery, also called corrective jaw surgery, may be necessary if a child’s jaws are severely misaligned. Also, children who need surgery often receive orthodontic treatment (such as braces and headgear) before and after surgery. Is Jaw Surgery Necessary?

What is the meaning of orthognath?

, orthognathous (ōr-thōg-nath’ik, ōr-thog’nă-thŭs), In the diphthong gn, the g is silent only at the beginning of a word. 1. Relating to orthognathia. 2. Having a face without projecting jaw, one with a gnathic index less than 98.

Is orthognathic surgery covered by insurance?

If you have health insurance, orthognathic surgery may be covered in some cases. For example, some insurance companies (e.g. Aetna) consider jaw surgeries to be “medically necessary” if the skeletal irregularities cause sleep apnea disorder, breathing issues, and/or severe speech impediments.