Our Summary

This research paper discusses the experiences of performing jaw corrective surgeries, known as orthognathic surgeries, in an office setting (outside the hospital) over a 12-year period. The researcher carried out 254 surgeries during this time. The average time taken for these procedures was similar to the time reported in other studies. A surgery involving both jaws took on average 3 hours and 11 minutes, while single-jaw surgeries took on average 2 hours and 1 minute to 2 hours and 14 minutes, depending on the type of surgery. All patients were able to go home the same day, except for one who had to be taken to the hospital due to a problem with anesthesia but was also discharged later the same day. The researcher concluded that these types of surgeries can be safely and effectively performed in an office setting, as long as there is careful patient preparation and selection, and the surgeon is available for emergency contact to prevent unnecessary hospital stays.

FAQs

  1. How many orthognathic surgeries did the researcher perform over the 12-year period?
  2. What is the average time taken for the orthognathic surgery involving both jaws and single-jaw surgeries?
  3. Can orthognathic surgeries be safely and effectively performed in an office setting?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about orthognathic surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, including any dietary restrictions or medication guidelines. It is important to have a thorough understanding of the procedure, potential risks, and expected recovery process. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene before and after surgery can help reduce the risk of complications and promote faster healing. It is also important to attend all follow-up appointments and communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your healthcare provider.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended orthognathic surgery include those with severe bite issues, such as overbite or underbite, facial asymmetry, difficulty chewing or speaking, and obstructive sleep apnea. These patients may have tried other treatments, such as braces or orthodontic treatment, without success, and may benefit from jaw corrective surgery to improve their bite and facial appearance. Patients with congenital abnormalities, trauma-related injuries, or other jaw-related conditions may also be recommended for orthognathic surgery. It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeon to determine if they are suitable candidates for orthognathic surgery.

Timeline

Before Orthognathic Surgery:

  1. Initial Consultation: The patient meets with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss their concerns and goals for the surgery.
  2. Pre-Surgical Planning: The surgeon performs a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s facial structure and dental alignment to determine the best course of treatment.
  3. Orthodontic Treatment: The patient may undergo braces or other orthodontic treatments to prepare the teeth for surgery.
  4. Pre-Surgical Testing: The patient may undergo various tests, such as blood work and imaging studies, to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery.

After Orthognathic Surgery:

  1. Recovery: The patient will experience swelling, pain, and discomfort in the days following surgery.
  2. Follow-Up Appointments: The patient will have regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor their healing progress.
  3. Orthodontic Adjustments: The patient may continue with orthodontic treatment to fine-tune their bite and alignment.
  4. Long-Term Results: The patient will gradually see improvements in their facial appearance and function as they continue to heal and adjust to their new jaw position.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with orthognathic surgery?
  2. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care for this type of surgery?
  3. How will orthognathic surgery improve my bite and facial aesthetics?
  4. What are the alternative treatment options available for my condition?
  5. What is the success rate of orthognathic surgery in cases similar to mine?
  6. Will I need braces before or after the surgery, and for how long?
  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, and what are the potential side effects?
  9. Will I need to follow a specific diet or lifestyle changes before or after the surgery?
  10. What are the long-term outcomes and potential risks of not undergoing orthognathic surgery for my condition?

Reference

Authors: Bergmann U, Jónsdóttir OH, Bergmann JB, Björnsson GÁ. Journal: Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2023 Jul;52(7):801-805. doi: 10.1016/j.ijom.2022.11.006. Epub 2022 Nov 26. PMID: 36443143