Orthognathic Corrective Jaw Contouring Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is also known as corrective jaw surgery. It is used to treat a variety of facial and jaw abnormalities in which the facial bones and teeth are not correctly developed. This results in difficulty with chewing, speech, and jaw function. In many cases, the facial appearance is affected by this problem. Orthognathic means "straight jaws", and orthognathic surgery corrects these jaw and facial deformities, usually in conjunction with an orthodontist, so that after the jaws are corrected, the teeth will come together properly.
Sometimes, braces alone can correct a problem with the bite, but when it is severe, usually orthognathic surgery is required. Abnormal jaw and facial development can be genetic or acquired due to disease or injury. When the jaws are not properly developed or proportioned, problems such as difficulty chewing, jaw and facial pain, speech abnormalities and dental problems can result. Using sophisticated surgical techniques, the facial bones can be repositioned in order to restore proper function and facial appearance.
Evaluation
Orthognathic surgery is performed in the hospital or outpatient surgical center. Patients generally stay in the hospital 1-2 nights, depending on the extent of surgery done. Almost all patients agree that they are happy with the results and would go through the surgery again, without hesitation. The iimprovement in jaw function and facial appearance is remarkable. Our patients experience a great improvement in their self-confidence and quality of life after orthognathic surgery.
Pre-surgical Orthodontia
Our Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon and Orthodontist will work closely together during treatment. Orthodontic treatment (braces) is started before surgery. The teeth are moved and repositioned into proper alignment before surgery if necessary.
Preparing for Surgery
The Orthognathic Surgery will take place in a qualified hospital under general anesthesia. You will be admitted to the hospital one day prior to surgery and will be advised on dietary conditions for the days leading up to surgery. You will probably be required to stay in the hospital for five to seven days or so until you have recovered from the surgery. You will then undergo a full medical checkup. You should as always, maintain a good standard of oral hygiene before and after surgery.
Surgical Procedures
Orthognathic Surgery lasts anywhere from 1 hours to several hours depending on the type of surgery needed. Incisions are made inside the mouth during surgery and there will be no visible external scars. However if external incision has to be made, as in surgeries of the tempromandibular joint , care is taken to conceal it in the natural skin creases or folds. Meticulous suturing technique can reduce the scar formation.
Under what circumstances would I need orthognathic surgery?
The conditions which require orthognathic surgery are often refered to as “bad bites”. There are many types of “bad bites”, with some having a greater effect on facial esthetics than others. The common maxillofacial deformities and their clinical appearances are the following:
1. Protruded Maxilla (upper jaw)
The upper jaw is protruded beyond the normal limits along with the teeth. The person cannot close his lips (lip incompetence) without effort. The teeth are always visible and in most cases the whole of the gums are visible on smiling (gummy smile).
2. Retruded Maxilla
This deformity is due to under-development of the upper jaw mainly seen in people who have cleft lip or palate. After the surgical correction of the cleft lip or palate at a young age the growth of the maxilla is retarded along with displacement or destruction of the tooth bud. This causes a dish shaped face with a hooked or flaring nose and irregularly aligned, rotated or missing teeth.
3. Protruded Mandible (lower jaw)
In some people there will be extra growth of the lower jaw resulting in long jaw. Their faces are very long with protrusion of the lower teeth and thick lips. Normally on biting the lower teeth will be inside the upper teeth while in people with long jaws usually the lower teeth will be outside the upper arch.
4. Retruded Mandible
In some people due to developmental deformity or due to hereditary factors the lower jaw is very small resulting in a “bird face”. There is no proper development of the chin.
5. Facial Asymmetry
Sometimes a part of the face maybe overdeveloped or underdeveloped causing one part of the face to be small or large. One side of the face is not in symmetry with the other side giving an unaesthetic appearance.
|
Tummy Tuck Surgery
