Our Summary

This research paper is about a study on the effects of orthognathic surgery, which is a type of surgery that corrects conditions of the jaw and face related to structure, growth, sleep apnea, TMJ disorders or other issues. The study found that this surgery can make people look younger and improve their facial profile.

The study used pictures of 65 patients before and after their surgery. These pictures were randomly arranged and rated by 30 people. The patients’ facial profiles were categorized as either convex, concave, or straight.

The researchers found that, overall, patients looked about 1.3 years younger after their surgery. Those with straight or convex profiles saw the most significant changes, looking about 1.1 and 1.8 years younger, respectively. The study also found that the older a patient was at the time of their surgery, the more years they seemed to have ’lost’ in their appearance afterward.

In addition to looking younger, patients also rated higher in overall attractiveness and in every tested personality characteristic after their surgery. These improvements were not significantly related to the patients’ sociodemographics or facial profile.

In simple terms, the study suggests that this type of jaw and face surgery can make people look younger and more attractive, regardless of their age, sociodemographic background, or what their facial profile looks like.

FAQs

  1. What is orthognathic surgery and what conditions does it address?
  2. What were the primary findings of the study on the effects of orthognathic surgery?
  3. Does the patient’s age or sociodemographic background affect the outcome of the surgery in terms of appearance and attractiveness?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about orthognathic surgery is to understand that the surgery can not only correct functional issues with the jaw and face but also improve overall facial aesthetics. Patients should be prepared for potential improvements in their appearance, including looking younger and more attractive, as a result of the surgery. It’s important to have realistic expectations and to discuss any concerns or goals with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended orthognathic surgery are those with conditions such as:

  1. Malocclusion (misalignment of the teeth and jaw)
  2. Skeletal discrepancies in the jaw structure (protruding or receding jaw)
  3. Facial asymmetry
  4. Sleep apnea
  5. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
  6. Difficulty chewing or speaking due to jaw abnormalities
  7. Facial trauma or injury affecting the jaw

Orthognathic surgery is often recommended for patients who have tried non-surgical orthodontic treatments but have not seen significant improvement in their condition. Additionally, patients who have aesthetic concerns related to their facial profile may also be candidates for orthognathic surgery to improve their appearance.

Overall, orthognathic surgery can have a positive impact on the physical and psychological well-being of patients with jaw and facial abnormalities, helping them achieve a more balanced and attractive facial profile.

Timeline

Before orthognathic surgery:

  • Patient consults with an orthodontist and oral surgeon to discuss treatment options
  • Orthodontic treatment may be required to align teeth before surgery
  • Patient undergoes pre-surgical evaluations such as X-rays, CT scans, and dental impressions
  • Surgical planning is done to determine the extent of the procedure and expected outcomes
  • Patient may need to make lifestyle changes such as adjusting their diet or stopping certain medications before surgery

After orthognathic surgery:

  • Patient undergoes the surgery, which may involve cutting and repositioning the jaw bones
  • Patient will typically stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and pain management
  • Recovery period can last several weeks to months, during which the patient may experience swelling, bruising, and difficulty eating
  • Patient will need to follow a strict post-operative care plan, including physical therapy, pain management, and dietary restrictions
  • Follow-up appointments with the oral surgeon and orthodontist will be necessary to monitor healing and adjust orthodontic treatment
  • Over time, the patient will see improvements in their facial profile, bite alignment, and overall function of the jaw and face

Overall, the process of orthognathic surgery can be a long and challenging journey, but the potential benefits in terms of improved appearance, function, and quality of life can be significant.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What specific issues or conditions can orthognathic surgery help to correct?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with orthognathic surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period after orthognathic surgery and what can I expect during this time?
  4. Will I need to follow a special diet or make any lifestyle changes before or after the surgery?
  5. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and what are the potential side effects or risks?
  6. How long will the results of the surgery last and will I need any additional procedures in the future?
  7. Can you provide me with before and after photos of previous patients who have undergone orthognathic surgery?
  8. What are the alternatives to orthognathic surgery and why do you recommend this option for me?
  9. How experienced are you in performing orthognathic surgery and what is your success rate with this procedure?
  10. Are there any specific instructions or precautions I should follow leading up to the surgery to ensure the best possible outcome?

Reference

Authors: Pourtaheri N, Peck CJ, Gowda A, Parsaei Y, Allam O, Patel VK, Park E, Yu J, Lopez J, Steinbacher DM. Journal: Plast Reconstr Surg. 2022 Jul 1;150(1):146-154. doi: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000009229. Epub 2022 May 17. PMID: 35575641