Learn More About
Jaw Surgery
What are the Different Types of Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Learn About the
Benefits of Jaw Surgery
Many patients are able to benefit from corrective jaw surgery. Often, it’s used as a way to correct congenital defects that have been present since birth. While the defect may not have been noticeable earlier in life, as the patient ages, they may have started experiencing unpleasant symptoms. Jaw surgery can help to improve:
- Speech and pronunciation problems.
- Problems swallowing, biting, or chewing because the mouth does not close fully.
- Protruding jaw, which is when the upper or lower jaw sticks out too far.
- Chronic jaw pain, which is more commonly known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain.
- Open bite, which is when there is a noticeable gap when the patient has their jaws closed.
- Problems breathing or severe sleep apnea disorder.
Treatment Process
Anesthesia
Patients will be placed under general anesthesia, so they will be unconscious throughout the entirety of the surgery and will awake when it is complete.
Procedure
During the surgery, our doctors will make incisions inside the mouth so that there are no noticeable scars on the face, mouth, chin, or jaw. They will cut into the jawbone that requires altering and then shift it into the correct position.
Post-Op
After the jaw is aligned, they will secure it in place with wire, screws, plates, or rubber bands so that it can’t shift and revert back to its incorrect positioning.
Recovery Instructions
Because corrective jaw surgery is a complicated procedure, patients may need to stay at a Virginia Beach and Chesapeake area hospital for a few days afterward to ensure they are recovering well. Once their condition has stabilized, they’ll be allowed to return home, where they should continue to rest and take it easy. In fact, they’ll probably have to take off at least two weeks from work or school to give their jaw time to heal.
It will also be some time before patients can return to their normal eating and drinking habits. They will not be able to chew or bite for at least two months after the surgery, and complete function of the jaw may not be completely normalized for a year. During this time, nutritious soft and liquid foods are recommended to give the body the vitamins and minerals it needs to recover.
To keep an eye on the patient’s progress, our doctors will recommend weekly checkup appointments for up to two months after the corrective jaw surgery. This gives them a chance to check jaw function, make sure the incisions are closing, and see if the patient has any other complications.
Is Jaw Surgery worth it for me?
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the Benefits of Jaw Surgery?
The benefits of jaw surgery can be extensive, depending on the underlying issues it aims to correct. Primarily, it can dramatically improve functionality, making eating, speaking, and breathing easier and more efficient. Additionally, many patients experience significant aesthetic enhancements, leading to increased self-confidence and improved overall quality of life. The corrections made during jaw surgery are designed to be permanent, offering a long-term resolution to complex dental and skeletal discrepancies. Dr. Frank Yeh at Coastal Virginia Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is committed to delivering exceptional results, utilizing his extensive surgical expertise to ensure that each patient achieves their treatment goals and a significantly enhanced life quality.
Choosing to undergo jaw surgery is a significant decision and one that should be made in consultation with a skilled and experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon. If you're considering jaw surgery, Dr. Frank Yeh at Coastal Virginia Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery would be pleased to meet with you. With his extensive experience and commitment to patient care, you can feel confident in your decision to pursue this life-changing procedure.
What is the Recovery Process Like After Jaw Surgery?
Recovery from jaw surgery is a gradual process that can vary widely among individuals, largely depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient's health. Typically, a hospital stay of one to two days is necessary after the operation. The initial healing phase lasts about six weeks, during which patients are advised to adhere to a soft diet to facilitate jaw healing. Complete recovery, involving the full integration and strengthening of the jaw structures, usually takes anywhere from 9 to 12 months. Dr. Yeh and his team will monitor your recovery closely through regular follow-ups, ensuring that the healing progresses optimally and addressing any complications promptly.
Who Needs Jaw Surgery?
Jaw surgery is typically advised for individuals who experience persistent jaw or TMJ discomfort, have difficulty chewing or biting, exhibit excessive tooth wear, or have significant facial asymmetry due to developmental discrepancies. It is also applicable in cases of open bites, congenital defects, or sleep apnea. If you experience any of these issues, jaw surgery might be an appropriate treatment option. Dr. Frank Yeh, practicing at Coastal Virginia Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, is a highly experienced surgeon who can conduct a thorough assessment to determine if you are a candidate for this procedure. He will guide you through the decision-making process, ensuring that you understand all aspects of the proposed treatment.
What is Jaw Surgery?
Jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is a specialized medical procedure aimed at correcting various structural issues with the jaw bones. This surgery adjusts the alignment of the jaws and teeth, enhancing their functionality and overall facial balance. It is primarily recommended for conditions that cannot be resolved with braces or other orthodontic treatments alone. The procedure might involve the upper jaw, lower jaw, chin, or a combination, depending on the specific alignment issues present. This surgical intervention not only aims to improve mouth function and facial aesthetics but also addresses problems like speech impediments and chronic jaw pain.