Our Summary

Orthognathic surgery is a procedure used to fix issues with the structure of the face and jaw, often related to birth defects or injuries. One of the main aims of this surgery is to improve how the soft tissue of the face, such as the skin and muscles, looks and functions. This often involves changes to the nose, which can be affected by the surgery.

In some cases, a rhinoplasty (nose job) can be done at the same time as the orthognathic surgery. This can be used to fix any existing issues with the nose, as well as any changes that might occur as a result of the jaw surgery.

However, doing a nose job at the same time as a jaw surgery can be challenging. These challenges can happen before, during, and after the surgery, but with careful planning and experience, these can be managed. In more complex cases, the nose job may need to be done separately, typically about six months after the jaw surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the main goal of orthognathic surgery?
  2. Can rhinoplasty be performed simultaneously with orthognathic surgery?
  3. What are some challenges in concurrent nasal surgery with jaw surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about jaw surgery is to follow all preoperative instructions carefully, such as avoiding certain medications or foods, to ensure the best possible outcome. Additionally, it is important to communicate any concerns or questions with your surgeon before the procedure to address any potential risks or complications. Following postoperative care instructions, such as maintaining proper oral hygiene and attending follow-up appointments, is also crucial for a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for jaw surgery include those with:

  1. Severe facial asymmetry
  2. Significant malocclusion (misalignment of the teeth)
  3. Difficulty chewing or biting
  4. Breathing problems due to jaw structure
  5. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
  6. Sleep apnea
  7. Congenital craniofacial anomalies
  8. Traumatic injuries to the jaw
  9. Patients with aesthetic concerns related to their jaw structure

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a multidisciplinary team including an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, orthodontist, and possibly a speech therapist or sleep specialist to determine if jaw surgery is the appropriate treatment option for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before jaw surgery:

  1. Initial consultation with an orthodontist and maxillofacial surgeon to discuss treatment options and plan for surgery.
  2. Pre-surgical orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and prepare the jaws for surgery.
  3. Pre-surgical evaluations and tests to assess the patient’s overall health and suitability for surgery.
  4. Pre-surgical counseling and education about the procedure, expected outcomes, and post-operative care.

After jaw surgery:

  1. Recovery period in the hospital immediately following surgery, typically 1-2 days.
  2. Post-operative pain management and monitoring for complications.
  3. Liquid or soft diet for several weeks to allow the jaw to heal.
  4. Orthodontic adjustments to fine-tune the bite and alignment of the teeth.
  5. Physical therapy to improve jaw function and reduce swelling.
  6. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon and orthodontist to monitor healing and progress.
  7. Long-term follow-up care to ensure the stability and success of the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific type of jaw surgery do I need and why?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with jaw surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect during the healing period?
  4. Will I need to have any additional procedures, such as rhinoplasty, performed with the jaw surgery?
  5. How will jaw surgery impact my bite and ability to chew and speak?
  6. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  7. Will I need to follow a special diet or take any medications after the surgery?
  8. What are the long-term effects of jaw surgery and how will it impact my facial appearance?
  9. How many jaw surgeries have you performed and what is your success rate?
  10. Can you provide me with before and after photos of previous patients who have undergone jaw surgery?

Reference

Authors: Seah TE, Ilankovan V. Journal: Oral Maxillofac Surg Clin North Am. 2023 Feb;35(1):115-126. doi: 10.1016/j.coms.2022.06.008. Epub 2022 Nov 3. PMID: 36336598