Our Summary

Orthognathic surgery, which is often required to correct conditions of the jaw and face related to structure, growth, sleep apnea, or other issues, usually happens around the age of adulthood. However, many patients who need this procedure are still legally children, which complicates the process of getting their agreement to undergo the surgery. This is especially challenging because teenagers are going through significant changes in their thinking and understanding, the treatment involves several different stages and healthcare providers, and the surgery is usually not a life-saving measure, but rather an elective one. A high-quality process for obtaining the patient’s agreement can help determine who will most benefit from the surgery and make the patient more satisfied with the treatment.

FAQs

  1. What is the ideal age to undergo orthognathic surgery?
  2. What is the process of assent in surgical orthodontics and why is it necessary?
  3. How does a high-quality assent process contribute to patient satisfaction in orthognathic surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about orthognathic surgery is to carefully follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon and their team. This may include guidelines for preparing for surgery, managing pain and swelling after surgery, and following a specific diet or oral hygiene routine during recovery. By following these instructions closely, patients can help ensure a successful outcome and minimize any potential complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for orthognathic surgery are those with severe malocclusion, jaw discrepancies, facial asymmetry, obstructive sleep apnea, temporomandibular joint disorders, and other craniofacial abnormalities. These patients may experience difficulty chewing, speaking, breathing, and have aesthetic concerns. Orthognathic surgery can help improve their bite function, facial symmetry, and overall quality of life. Additionally, patients who have completed their growth spurt and have good oral hygiene are good candidates for orthognathic surgery.

Timeline

Before orthognathic surgery:

  1. Consultation with an orthodontist to discuss the need for surgery and the treatment plan.
  2. Evaluation by a maxillofacial surgeon to assess the extent of the jaw misalignment and determine the surgical approach.
  3. Pre-surgical orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and prepare the jaws for surgery.
  4. Pre-surgical appointments and tests to ensure the patient is medically fit for surgery.
  5. Informed consent process where the risks, benefits, and alternatives of the surgery are explained to the patient.

After orthognathic surgery:

  1. Recovery period where the patient may experience swelling, pain, and difficulty eating.
  2. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon and orthodontist to monitor healing and adjust the bite as needed.
  3. Continuing orthodontic treatment to fine-tune the alignment of the teeth.
  4. Long-term follow-up to ensure the stability of the surgical results and address any issues that may arise.
  5. Improved facial aesthetics and function for the patient, leading to increased quality of life and self-confidence.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific issues or concerns with my bite or facial structure can orthognathic surgery address?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with orthognathic surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care needed after surgery?
  4. Will I need to wear braces before and/or after the surgery, and for how long?
  5. How will orthognathic surgery affect my facial appearance and overall function?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options to orthognathic surgery that I should consider?
  7. What is the success rate of orthognathic surgery for patients with similar conditions to mine?
  8. How many orthognathic surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  9. Will I need any additional procedures or treatments in conjunction with orthognathic surgery?
  10. What is the expected outcome and long-term prognosis of orthognathic surgery for me?

Reference

Authors: Daws S. Journal: Cleft Palate Craniofac J. 2021 Mar;58(3):391-395. doi: 10.1177/1055665620951062. Epub 2020 Aug 20. PMID: 32815374