Our Summary

Orthognathic surgery is a procedure used to correct issues with the jaw and face that affect a person’s ability to eat, speak, and breathe properly, and also to improve facial appearance. However, this surgery can be complex and patients often experience severe discomfort and side effects after the operation.

Recently, a new type of orthognathic surgery has been developed that is less invasive. This minimally invasive orthognathic surgery (MIOS) has several potential benefits over traditional methods. It causes less damage to the body, reduces inflammation, makes recovery more comfortable, and results in a better appearance after surgery.

The paper discusses the differences between traditional orthognathic procedures (like maxillary Le Fort I osteotomy, bilateral sagittal split osteotomy, and genioplasty) and the new, minimally invasive procedure. It also describes how MIOS is performed on different parts of the jaw.

FAQs

  1. What is orthognathic surgery and its purpose?
  2. What are the potential long-term benefits of minimally invasive orthognathic surgery (MIOS)?
  3. How does minimally invasive orthognathic surgery differ from traditional procedures such as maxillary Le Fort I osteotomy, bilateral sagittal split osteotomy, and genioplasty?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor may give a patient about orthognathic surgery is to follow the pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a successful outcome. This may include maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding smoking and alcohol, and taking prescribed medications as directed. It is also important to attend all follow-up appointments and communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your healthcare provider. By following these guidelines, patients can help minimize complications and achieve the best results from their orthognathic surgery.

Suitable For

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

  1. Severe malocclusion or misalignment of the jaws
  2. Facial asymmetry
  3. Difficulty chewing, biting, or swallowing
  4. Obstructive sleep apnea
  5. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
  6. Speech problems
  7. Breathing problems
  8. Skeletal open bite or deep bite
  9. Protruding or retruding jaws
  10. Excessive wear of the teeth due to malocclusion

It is important for patients to undergo a comprehensive evaluation by a team of orthodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and other specialists to determine if orthognathic surgery is the appropriate treatment option for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before Orthognathic Surgery:

  1. Initial consultation with an orthodontist and oral surgeon to assess the patient’s dentofacial deformity and determine if orthognathic surgery is necessary.
  2. Orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and prepare the jaws for surgery.
  3. Pre-surgical orthodontic planning and imaging studies, such as X-rays, CT scans, and digital models.
  4. Pre-surgical consultations with the surgical team to discuss the procedure, risks, and expectations.
  5. Pre-surgical preparation, which may include fasting before the surgery and stopping certain medications.

After Orthognathic Surgery:

  1. Immediate postoperative care in the hospital or surgical center, including monitoring for complications and pain management.
  2. Recovery period at home, which may involve swelling, bruising, and discomfort for several weeks.
  3. Follow-up appointments with the surgical team to monitor healing and adjust orthodontic treatment.
  4. Gradual return to normal activities, including eating soft foods and practicing good oral hygiene.
  5. Long-term follow-up care to monitor the results of the surgery and address any issues that may arise, such as bite changes or relapse.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific dental or facial deformity are you recommending orthognathic surgery for?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with orthognathic surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and postoperative care required?
  4. Will I need any additional orthodontic treatment before or after the surgery?
  5. What are the long-term results and benefits of orthognathic surgery?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options to orthognathic surgery?
  7. How many orthognathic surgeries have you performed and what is your success rate?
  8. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  9. Will I need to follow a specific diet or lifestyle changes after the surgery?
  10. How soon after the surgery will I be able to return to normal activities and work?

Reference

Authors: Claus JDP, Almeida MS, Lopes HJC, Pereira A, Leon N. Journal: Compend Contin Educ Dent. 2023 Feb;44(2):81-85; quiz 86. PMID: 36802748