Our Summary

This research paper reviews a new surgical technique called “Surgery-First,” and compares it to traditional orthognathic surgery. The researchers want to know which approach is better in terms of how long the treatment takes, how happy patients are with the results, and how stable the results are after surgery. By looking at the pros and cons of both methods, they aim to find out which one gives the most effective results.

FAQs

  1. What is the main difference between the “Surgery-First” technique and conventional orthognathic surgery?
  2. Does the “Surgery-First” technique offer more efficient results than conventional orthognathic surgery?
  3. How does the treatment length and patient satisfaction compare between the “Surgery-First” technique and the conventional orthognathic surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about jaw surgery is to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome. This may include following a specific diet, taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and practicing proper oral hygiene. Additionally, patients should communicate any concerns or questions they may have with their doctor to ensure they have a clear understanding of the procedure and recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for jaw surgery include those with severe malocclusions, facial asymmetry, open bites, underbites, overbites, and other skeletal discrepancies that cannot be corrected through orthodontic treatment alone. These patients may also have difficulty chewing, speaking, or breathing properly due to their jaw misalignment. Additionally, patients with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) or obstructive sleep apnea may also benefit from jaw surgery. It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by an orthodontist and oral surgeon to determine if they are suitable candidates for jaw surgery.

Timeline

Before jaw surgery:

  1. Initial consultation with an orthodontist and oral surgeon to discuss treatment options and determine if jaw surgery is necessary.
  2. Pre-surgical orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and prepare the jaws for surgery.
  3. Pre-operative evaluations and tests to ensure the patient is healthy enough for surgery.
  4. Surgical planning and discussion of the procedure with the patient.
  5. Jaw surgery performed under general anesthesia, which may involve repositioning the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both to correct bite and facial asymmetry.
  6. Post-operative recovery period with swelling, pain, and a liquid diet for the first few days.

After jaw surgery:

  1. Follow-up appointments with the oral surgeon and orthodontist to monitor healing and progress.
  2. Gradual transition to a soft diet as the jaw heals.
  3. Continued orthodontic treatment to fine-tune the bite and alignment of the teeth.
  4. Regular check-ups to monitor long-term stability and ensure the results of the surgery are maintained.
  5. Patient satisfaction with the improved function and appearance of their jaw and smile.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with jaw surgery?

  2. How long will the recovery process take and what can I expect in terms of post-operative pain and discomfort?

  3. Will I need to wear braces before and/or after the surgery, and for how long?

  4. What are the success rates of the “Surgery-First” technique compared to traditional orthognathic surgery?

  5. How will my bite and facial appearance be affected by the surgery, and what are the expected outcomes in terms of functional and aesthetic improvements?

  6. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery, and how soon can I return to normal activities?

  7. What type of post-operative care will be required, and how often will follow-up appointments be necessary?

  8. Are there any alternative treatment options to jaw surgery that I should consider?

  9. What are the qualifications and experience of the surgical team performing the procedure, and what is their success rate with similar cases?

  10. How much will the surgery cost, and will it be covered by my insurance?

Reference

Authors: Patianna AG, Ballini A, Meneghello M, Cantore S, Inchingolo AM, Dipalma G, Inchingolo AD, Inchingolo F, Malcangi G, Lucchese A, Goker F, Del Fabbro M, Greco Lucchina A, Cirulli N. Journal: J Biol Regul Homeost Agents. 2019 Nov-Dec;33(6 Suppl. 2):59-67. DENTAL SUPPLEMENT. PMID: 32425025