Our Summary

This research paper discusses a resurgence in the use of a method called ‘Surgery First’ in orthognathic surgery, a type of surgery that corrects conditions related to the jaw and face. With the help of digital planning and simulations, these surgeries have become more predictable.

Orthodontists, the dentists who specialize in aligning teeth and jaws, are crucial for the success of these surgeries. The ‘Surgery First’ and ‘Surgery Early’ methods have made the process of correcting jaw and facial deformities much more straightforward and transparent.

The choice of treatment is decided after detailed discussions between the surgeon, the orthodontist, and the patient to ensure a successful outcome.

FAQs

  1. What is the Surgery First approach in orthognathic surgery?
  2. How has digital planning and simulation improved the predictability of Surgery First procedures?
  3. What role does the orthodontist play in the successful management of Surgery First and Surgery Early cases?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about jaw surgery is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. This may include keeping the surgical site clean, taking prescribed medications as directed, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding certain activities that could impact healing. It is also important to maintain good oral hygiene and follow a soft diet as recommended by the surgeon during the recovery period. By following these guidelines, patients can help ensure a successful outcome after jaw surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for jaw surgery include those with severe malocclusions or misalignments of the teeth, jaws, or facial skeleton that cannot be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone. This can include patients with skeletal discrepancies such as underbites, overbites, crossbites, open bites, and asymmetries. Patients with facial asymmetry, sleep apnea, temporomandibular joint disorders, and difficulty chewing or speaking may also benefit from jaw surgery. Additionally, patients with aesthetic concerns related to their jaw position or facial proportions may be candidates for jaw surgery. Ultimately, the decision to recommend jaw surgery is based on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s individual needs and goals for treatment.

Timeline

Before jaw surgery:

  1. Patient consultation with orthodontist and oral surgeon to discuss treatment options.
  2. Digital planning and simulation of the surgery to improve predictability.
  3. Pre-surgical orthodontic treatment to align teeth in preparation for surgery.
  4. Surgical planning and coordination between orthodontist and oral surgeon.

After jaw surgery:

  1. Immediate improvement in facial appearance and function.
  2. Post-operative care and monitoring by the surgical team.
  3. Oral rehabilitation and speech therapy as needed.
  4. Follow-up appointments with orthodontist to continue alignment of teeth.
  5. Long-term monitoring and maintenance to ensure successful outcomes.

Overall, the patient goes through a comprehensive and coordinated treatment process before and after jaw surgery to achieve optimal results and improve their quality of life.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about jaw surgery include:

  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 during the recovery period?
  3. What type of results can I expect from the surgery and how will it improve my jaw alignment and facial appearance?
  4. Will I need to undergo orthodontic treatment before or after the surgery?
  5. How will the surgery be performed and what techniques will be used?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options for my condition?
  7. What is the success rate of jaw surgery and what factors can affect the outcome?
  8. How experienced are you in performing jaw surgery and can you provide examples of successful cases you have treated?
  9. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or follow a specific diet before or after the surgery?
  10. How much will the surgery cost and will it be covered by my insurance?

Reference

Authors: Millesi GA, Zimmermann M, Eltz M. Journal: Oral Maxillofac Surg Clin North Am. 2023 Feb;35(1):71-82. doi: 10.1016/j.coms.2022.06.010. Epub 2022 Nov 3. PMID: 36336597