Orthognathic surgery

Maxillary Osteotomy: This surgery involves cutting and repositioning the upper jawbone to correct deformities of the upper jaw, such as a narrow or protruding upper jaw.

Mandibular Osteotomy: This surgery involves cutting and repositioning the lower jawbone to correct deformities of the lower jaw, such as an underdeveloped or overdeveloped lower jaw.

Genioplasty: This surgery involves cutting and repositioning the chin bone to correct deformities of the chin, such as a receding or protruding chin.

Bimaxillary Osteotomy: This surgery involves cutting and repositioning both the upper and lower jawbones to correct deformities of both jaws, such as a significant overbite or underbite.

Segmental Osteotomy: This surgery involves cutting and repositioning specific sections of the jawbone to correct localized deformities or asymmetries.

Distraction Osteogenesis: This surgery involves the gradual lengthening of the jawbone using a special device, and is typically used to correct severe deformities or deficiencies of the jaw.

Consultation: The patient meets with an orthodontist to discuss their concerns and goals for the surgery. The orthodontist will also perform an examination and take x-rays and/or scans to assess the patient’s jaw structure and determine the extent of the deformity.

Treatment planning: The orthodontist works with an oral & maxillofacial surgeon to develop a treatment plan that includes both orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and surgical treatment to correct the jaw deformity.

Pre-surgical orthodontics: The patient undergoes orthodontic treatment to prepare their teeth for the surgery. This typically involves wearing braces or other orthodontic appliances to move the teeth into the correct position.

Surgery: The patient undergoes the surgical procedure, which may involve an incision in the mouth or on the face to access the jawbones. The surgeon then repositions the jawbones using specialized surgical tools and techniques, and may use bone grafts or other materials to support the new position.

Post-surgical orthodontics: The patient continues with orthodontic treatment to ensure that their teeth align properly with the new position of the jawbones.

Follow-up: The patient undergoes regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon and orthodontist to monitor their progress and make any necessary adjustments to their treatment plan.

Improved chewing, speech, and breathing function.

Enhanced facial symmetry and aesthetics.

Correction of malocclusions, underbites, overbites, and other jaw-related conditions.

Relief from chronic pain and discomfort related to jaw joint dysfunction (TMJ).

Boost in self-confidence and self-esteem.

Infection: Infections can occur at the surgical site, which can lead to complications and prolong the recovery process.

Bleeding: Bleeding is a common risk associated with any surgery, and may require transfusions or other interventions to manage.

Nerve damage: The surgery can result in temporary or permanent damage to the nerves that control facial sensation or movement.

Swelling and bruising: Swelling and bruising are common after orthognathic surgery and can persist for several weeks.

TMJ disorder: The surgery can alter the position of the jaw, which can increase the risk of developing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.

Relapse: In some cases, the jaws may shift back to their original position after the surgery, which may require additional treatment.

Dental and occlusal changes: There is a risk that the surgery may cause changes to the occlusion or bite, which can affect dental function and aesthetics.

It is important for patients to closely follow their surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care and attend follow-up appointments to monitor for any potential complications. With proper care and management, the risks of complications can be minimized and optimal outcomes can be achieved.

Malocclusion: Patients with severe bite problems that cannot be corrected with orthodontics alone, such as an underbite, overbite, or crossbite, may require orthognathic surgery.

Facial asymmetry: Patients with significant facial asymmetry or disproportion may require orthognathic surgery to correct the skeletal discrepancies.

Breathing difficulties: Patients with obstructive sleep apnea, airway obstruction, or other breathing difficulties due to jaw or facial skeletal problems may require orthognathic surgery to improve their breathing and overall health.

Speech difficulties: Patients with speech difficulties due to jaw or facial skeletal problems may require orthognathic surgery to improve their speech and communication skills.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: Patients with TMJ disorders, including chronic pain and joint dysfunction, may require orthognathic surgery to correct the underlying skeletal problems that are contributing to their condition.

Aesthetic concerns: Patients who are unhappy with the appearance of their face or jaw may opt for orthognathic surgery to improve their facial harmony and overall appearance.

Sleep apnea: In some cases, orthognathic surgery may be recommended to treat obstructive sleep apnea, a condition in which the airway is partially or completely blocked during sleep.

Facial trauma: Patients with facial trauma or injuries that result in severe jaw misalignment may require orthognathic surgery to restore normal function and appearance.

Ultimately, the decision to undergo orthognathic surgery is based on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s condition and treatment options, and should be made in consultation with a qualified orthodontist and oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

Evaluation and planning: Before the surgery, a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical and dental history, physical examination, and radiographic analysis is conducted to determine the patient’s suitability for surgery. A team of professionals, including an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, will develop a comprehensive treatment plan based on the patient’s goals, the severity of the skeletal discrepancy, and the available treatment options.

Preoperative preparation: Patients are typically instructed to discontinue certain medications, avoid smoking, and follow a specific diet before the surgery to optimize their health and minimize the risk of complications.

Anaesthesia: Orthognathic surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia, which is administered by an anaesthesiologist with experience in providing anaesthesia for this type of procedure.

Incisions: The surgeon will make incisions in the jawbones to access and reposition them. The location and size of the incisions will depend on the specific needs of the patient.

Repositioning of the jawbones: The surgeon will reposition the jawbones to correct the skeletal discrepancy. In some cases, bone grafts or other materials may be used to stabilize the bones in their new position.

Postoperative care: After the surgery, patients are monitored closely to ensure proper healing and to manage any complications that may arise. They are typically instructed to follow a specific diet, take pain medication, and avoid strenuous activities for several weeks. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon and orthodontist are necessary to monitor the progress of the treatment and make any necessary adjustments.

Orthodontic treatment: Most patients will require orthodontic treatment before and after the surgery to ensure that their teeth are properly aligned with their new jaw position. This may involve the use of braces, retainers, or other orthodontic appliances.

Overall, orthognathic surgery is a complex procedure that requires careful evaluation, planning, and execution to achieve the desired outcomes. A team of professionals, including an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, will work together to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that meets the patient’s individual needs and goals.

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Kigo Dental has a team of experienced and skilled Orthodontists and other specialised dentists who specialise in providing high-quality dental care and treatments, utilising the latest technologies and techniques to ensure the best outcomes for their patients.