Our Summary

Orthognathic surgery is a procedure that corrects conditions of the jaw and face related to structure, growth, sleep apnea, TMJ disorders, malocclusion problems owing to skeletal disharmonies, or other orthodontic problems that cannot be easily treated with braces. In this research paper, the authors propose that simple procedures to treat chronic nasal obstruction (CNO) should be included in orthognathic surgery to improve patient care and results.

The authors explain the techniques for treating CNO during orthodontic surgery, backed up with some case studies. They suggest that restoring nasal ventilation should be an aim of orthodontic surgical treatment, and that CNO treatment can be carried out at the same time as a maxillomandibular osteotomy, a type of orthognathic surgery. Both procedures can be done simultaneously, improving the efficiency of the surgery and potentially enhancing the patient’s quality of life.

FAQs

  1. What is orthognathic surgery and what conditions does it treat?
  2. How can treating chronic nasal obstruction (CNO) during orthognathic surgery improve patient care and results?
  3. Can chronic nasal obstruction treatment and maxillomandibular osteotomy be carried out simultaneously?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about jaw surgery is to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully. This may include avoiding certain foods, taking prescribed medications, and attending follow-up appointments. It’s important to communicate any concerns or questions with your healthcare team to ensure a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who may benefit from jaw surgery typically include those with:

  1. Severe malocclusion or misalignment of the teeth and jaws that cannot be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone.
  2. Facial asymmetry or imbalance due to skeletal disharmonies.
  3. Sleep apnea or other breathing problems related to the jaw structure.
  4. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders that are causing pain and dysfunction.
  5. Difficulty chewing, speaking, or swallowing due to jaw abnormalities.
  6. Chronic nasal obstruction that is impacting breathing and overall quality of life.

Overall, patients who have significant jaw and facial issues that are affecting their oral health, appearance, and function may be recommended for orthognathic surgery to correct these problems. It is important for patients to consult with a qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon to determine if jaw surgery is the best treatment option for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before jaw surgery, a patient typically undergoes a thorough evaluation by an orthodontist and maxillofacial surgeon to determine the extent of the jaw deformity and plan the appropriate treatment. This may involve orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and prepare the jaw for surgery.

During the surgery, the maxillofacial surgeon makes incisions in the jawbone to reposition it into the correct alignment. In some cases, additional procedures may be performed, such as bone grafting or reshaping of the jawbone. The surgery is usually done under general anesthesia and can take several hours to complete.

After jaw surgery, the patient may experience some swelling, pain, and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication and ice packs. A liquid or soft diet may be recommended for a period of time to allow the jaw to heal properly.

Follow-up appointments with the orthodontist and maxillofacial surgeon will be necessary to monitor the healing process and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. It may take several months for the jaw to fully heal and for the patient to see the final results of the surgery.

Overall, jaw surgery can greatly improve the function and appearance of the jaw and face, leading to better oral health and overall quality of life for the patient.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific condition or issue is causing the need for jaw surgery?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process expected to be, and what can I expect during this time?
  4. Will I need to follow any specific diet or lifestyle changes post-surgery?
  5. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  6. How experienced is the surgeon in performing orthognathic surgery?
  7. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?
  8. Will I need to undergo any additional procedures before or after the jaw surgery?
  9. What are the expected outcomes of the surgery, and what kind of results can I expect?
  10. How long will the effects of the surgery last, and will I need any follow-up treatments or appointments?

Reference

Authors: Alande C, Vandersteen C, Masson Regnault E. Journal: Orthod Fr. 2022 Sep 1;93(3):237-248. doi: 10.1684/orthodfr.2022.90. PMID: 36217583