Our Summary

This research study evaluated the quality of information available on social media platforms about orthognathic surgery (a type of jaw surgery) combined with orthodontic treatment. They searched five databases and various other sources, with no restrictions on location and year of publication.

The study found 12 relevant research papers. YouTube was the most investigated social media platform. The overall quality of information on all platforms studied was found to be between poor and moderate.

Most of the content was from patients sharing their experiences, but these often lacked medically relevant information. Instead, they mostly focused on their satisfaction with the treatment, the results, and their doctors.

Content from healthcare professionals had better quality information, but they were less viewed and engaged with by the public. Information about complications, duration, costs, and expectations after surgery were least mentioned.

The study also found that certain hashtags like “#jawsurgery”, “#surgeryfirst”, and “#genioplasty” were more popular with the public.

In conclusion, the study warns orthodontic professionals about the poor to moderate quality of information on these platforms and suggests they guide individuals to more accurate sources.

FAQs

  1. What was the overall quality of information found about orthognathic surgery on social media platforms?
  2. What type of content was most common on social media platforms about orthognathic surgery?
  3. What does the study suggest to orthodontic professionals about information on social media platforms?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about orthognathic surgery is to thoroughly research and consult with qualified healthcare professionals before making any decisions. It is important to gather information from reputable sources, such as medical journals or trusted healthcare providers, rather than relying solely on social media platforms. Additionally, patients should discuss their expectations, concerns, and potential risks with their healthcare team to ensure they have a clear understanding of the procedure and its outcomes.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended orthognathic surgery are those with severe malocclusion (misalignment of the teeth or jaw), jaw deformities, facial asymmetry, difficulty chewing or speaking, sleep apnea, and other related issues. This surgery is often recommended when orthodontic treatment alone is not sufficient to correct the problem. It is usually recommended for patients in their late teens or early twenties, as the jaw is still growing and developing at this age. However, adults can also undergo orthognathic surgery if needed.

It is important for patients considering orthognathic surgery to consult with a qualified orthodontic professional to determine if they are a suitable candidate for the procedure. They should also be well-informed about the risks, benefits, and post-operative care involved in the surgery.

Timeline

Before orthognathic surgery:

  1. Patient is referred to an orthodontist for evaluation and treatment planning.
  2. Patient undergoes orthodontic treatment to align their teeth and jaws in preparation for surgery.
  3. Patient meets with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to discuss the surgical procedure, risks, benefits, and expected outcomes.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-surgical tests and evaluations to ensure they are a good candidate for surgery.
  5. Patient receives information and instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including dietary restrictions and post-operative care.

After orthognathic surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes the surgical procedure to reposition the jaw and correct any functional or aesthetic issues.
  2. Patient experiences swelling, pain, and discomfort in the days following surgery.
  3. Patient may need to follow a liquid or soft diet for a period of time to allow for proper healing.
  4. Patient attends follow-up appointments with their surgeon and orthodontist to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments.
  5. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and may experience improvements in breathing, chewing, and overall facial aesthetics.
  6. Patient continues with orthodontic treatment to fine-tune the alignment of their teeth and jaws.
  7. Patient enjoys the long-term benefits of improved facial harmony, function, and confidence.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What are the specific reasons for recommending orthognathic surgery in my case?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period expected to be, and what can I expect during this time?
  4. What are the expected outcomes of the surgery, and are there any limitations or restrictions I should be aware of post-surgery?
  5. What is the estimated cost of the surgery, and will my insurance cover any part of it?
  6. Are there alternative treatment options available, and how do they compare to orthognathic surgery?
  7. How experienced are you in performing orthognathic surgery, and what is your success rate?
  8. Can you provide me with before and after photos of previous patients who have undergone similar surgeries?
  9. Will I need to undergo orthodontic treatment before or after the surgery, and if so, what is the timeline for this?
  10. What should I do to prepare for the surgery, both physically and mentally?

Reference

Authors: Ngo M, Jensen E, Meade M. Journal: Int Orthod. 2025 Mar;23(1):100959. doi: 10.1016/j.ortho.2024.100959. Epub 2024 Dec 19. PMID: 39705820