Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a specialized procedure designed to correct problems related to jaw alignment, structure, and function عمل جراحی فک. While braces can fix many dental issues, jaw surgery is sometimes necessary when the bones themselves are the root of the problem.
What Is Jaw Surgery?
Jaw surgery involves repositioning the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both to improve the way the teeth fit together and to address facial imbalance or functional issues. It’s typically performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in collaboration with an orthodontist.
This surgery isn’t cosmetic—though improved facial appearance is often a bonus. It’s mainly performed to correct medical and functional concerns that can affect daily life.
Who Needs Jaw Surgery?
Jaw surgery may be recommended if you have:
-
Bite problems like an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite
-
Difficulty chewing, biting, or swallowing
-
Chronic jaw or TMJ pain
-
Sleep apnea or breathing issues
-
Facial asymmetry or imbalance
-
Speech difficulties
-
Injuries or congenital conditions (like cleft palate or birth defects)
In many cases, the condition is diagnosed during teenage years, but the surgery is delayed until jaw growth is complete—typically around ages 17 to 21.
Common Types of Jaw Surgery
Different procedures are used depending on the issue:
1. Maxillary Osteotomy (Upper Jaw Surgery)
Used to correct an upper jaw that is too far forward, too far back, or uneven.
2. Mandibular Osteotomy (Lower Jaw Surgery)
Used when the lower jaw is either too far back (overbite) or too far forward (underbite).
3. Bimaxillary Osteotomy
Surgery on both jaws simultaneously, often done in more complex or severe cases.
4. Genioplasty (Chin Surgery)
Sometimes combined with jaw surgery to improve chin position or profile.
The Treatment Process
Jaw surgery is part of a longer treatment journey that includes both orthodontics and surgery.
-
Pre-Surgical Phase
Braces are usually worn for 12–18 months before surgery to align teeth. -
Surgery
Performed under general anesthesia in a hospital. The bones are repositioned and secured with metal plates and screws. -
Recovery
-
Hospital stay: 1–3 days
-
Initial healing: 6–8 weeks
-
Full recovery: up to 12 months
Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal, but most people return to work or school within a few weeks.
-
-
Post-Surgical Orthodontics
Braces remain on for a few more months to finalize the bite.
Benefits of Jaw Surgery
-
Improved ability to chew, bite, and speak
-
Relief from jaw pain or TMJ issues
-
Better breathing (especially in sleep apnea cases)
-
Enhanced facial appearance and symmetry
-
Long-term dental health improvements
Risks and Complications
Jaw surgery is generally safe, but like all surgical procedures, it carries some risks:
-
Numbness (often temporary) in the lips or chin
-
Infection
-
Bleeding
-
Relapse or minor shifting of the jaw
-
Need for revision surgery (rare)
Your surgical team will thoroughly explain all risks before the procedure.
Final Thoughts
Jaw surgery is a major commitment—but for many people, it’s life-changing. Beyond the functional improvements, patients often report increased self-confidence, reduced pain, and a better quality of life. If you think jaw surgery might be right for you, speak with your orthodontist or oral surgeon for a personalized consultation.