Orthognathic surgery, also known as jaw surgery, is a type of oral and maxillofacial surgery that corrects jaw and tooth irregularities to improve facial balance, speech, chewing, and breathing. This type of surgery may be necessary when jaw growth is not in proportion to the rest of the face or when a person has a congenital (birth) deformity or injury that affects the jaw.
The surgery involves repositioning and realigning the jaw bones to improve their functional and aesthetic appearance. The procedure can involve moving the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both, and may also include the correction of bite problems. Orthognathic surgery may be performed in combination with other facial cosmetic procedures, such as rhinoplasty (nose surgery) or chin augmentation.
Orthognathic surgery is typically performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, with the patient under general anesthesia. The recovery period after jaw surgery can last several weeks, and may include swelling, discomfort, and a soft diet. However, the results of orthognathic surgery can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life and self-esteem, and can greatly improve their oral health and overall appearance.