Corrective Jaw Surgery

Orthognathic surgery is a complicated procedure with many steps. The intricacies of the way the teeth bite, facial appearance, moving jaws, and more combine to make for a team effort when it comes to your surgery. We combine orthodontists, oral surgeons and dental specialists to achieve the correct result. If we determine you are a good candidate for orthognathic surgery, we’ll adapt our procedures to provide you with an accurate and efficient method of restoring your jaw. Every patient is different and requires a unique, precise approach to fixing their health and looks.

Your surgeons will discuss what they believe your particular recovery will be like, which is dependent on whether not both jawbones need to be corrected, the amount of surgical correction needed, and the age and needs of the patient.

Insurance preauthorization is performed through your oral surgeon’s office prior to performing the procedure. Austin Oral Surgery has a team of experts in the field of insurance coverage, and they will assist you in maximizing your insurance benefits.

Preparing for jaw surgery involves several important pre-surgery steps to ensure a smooth recovery and successful outcome. It’s essential to follow your surgeon’s instructions closely and take proactive measures.

• Schedule a pre-operative consultation with your surgeon.
• Discuss any medications you are currently taking.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery.
• Stock up on soft foods and liquids for your recovery.
• Plan for time off work or school as needed.
• Follow any specific dietary or health guidelines provided by your surgeon.

All surgical procedures carry potential risks. Common risks for jaw surgery include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and the need for further surgery. Your surgeon will discuss these risks in detail during your consultation and take steps to minimize them.

Recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the surgery and individual factors such as age and overall health. Generally, patients can expect initial healing in about 6-8 weeks. Complete healing and adjustment may take up to 12 months.

You may experience swelling, mild discomfort, and dietary adjustments. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor healing progress and address any concerns. Be sure to follow all post-op instructions to minimize the length and complexity of your recovery period.

Patients are usually advised to sleep with their heads elevated and on their backs for the first few weeks post-surgery to minimize swelling and protect the surgical site. Consult with your oral surgeon to determine when it’s safe to return to sleeping on your side.

Initially, a liquid or soft diet is recommended to avoid strain on the jaw. You can gradually reintroduce solid foods as healing progresses, typically over several weeks. You will get specific dietary guidelines based on your recovery stage.

It’s important to consult with an orthodontist or oral surgeon who can evaluate whether you need jaw surgery. They will consider the severity of your overbite, its impact on your oral health, and your overall facial structure. But here are some general signs that may indicate the need for jaw surgery:

• Difficulty in chewing or biting
• Misalignment of teeth
• Speech problems
• Jaw pain or discomfort
• Aesthetic concerns regarding facial appearance

If you experience any of these issues, it’s a good idea to seek professional advice to explore your options.

Yes, corrective jaw surgery can significantly enhance your quality of life by improving jaw function, relieving pain, and boosting self-confidence through improved facial symmetry. Many patients report easier chewing, clearer speech, and better overall oral health.

Corrective jaw surgery can reshape the jaw to achieve a more balanced and symmetrical facial appearance. This adjustment can address issues such as an excessively prominent jaw, receding chin, or uneven facial features, leading to improved facial aesthetics. By realigning the jaws, patients can enhance their profile and overall facial harmony, which in turn can lead to a boost in self-esteem and confidence.

Orthodontics often complements corrective jaw surgery by aligning the teeth before and/or after the surgical procedure. This ensures that the teeth and jaws work harmoniously for optimal function and aesthetics.

Yes, orthognathic surgery can alleviate symptoms associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders by addressing jaw alignment issues that contribute to chronic pain and dysfunction.