Undergoing any surgical procedure can be intimidating, especially with complex oral and maxillofacial surgeries like double jaw surgery. This transformative procedure, also known as orthognathic surgery, is designed to correct skeletal irregularities and improve functionality and aesthetics.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the key aspects of this jaw surgery, including its purpose, candidacy, preparation, procedure, recovery, and potential outcomes.
Whether you’re considering this surgery for medical or cosmetic reasons, this guide aims to provide you with the essential information you need.
And we’d like to note that our Bellevue orthodontic surgeon at Schur Orthodontics is there for you from start to finish and beyond for this orthodontic treatment or another!
Purpose and benefits
Primarily we perform double jaw surgery to correct severe skeletal discrepancies, such as overbites, underbites, and asymmetry. By repositioning the upper and lower jaws, we can enhance facial balance, improve bite alignment, alleviate breathing difficulties, and even address speech problems.
The aesthetic improvements achieved through double jaw surgery can boost self-confidence and improve the overall quality of life. However, we’d like to note that undergoing this surgery should be a decision you make at a consultation with our experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who can assess your specific needs and determine if you’re a suitable candidate.
Candidacy and consultation
During the initial consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your oral health, examine your facial structure, and discuss your goals and expectations. We take factors such as age, jaw growth, dental health, and overall medical history into account to determine your candidacy.
Additionally, your surgeon may request X-rays, photographs, and dental impressions to aid in the planning process.
Moreover, we encourage you to be honest with our Bellevue orthodontic surgeon at this appointment to ensure a safe and successful surgery.
Preparation and procedure
Before the surgery, your orthodontist will guide you through a preparation process that may include dental work, orthodontic treatment, and lifestyle adjustments.
For instance, before your surgery, we may use orthodontic braces to align the teeth before the procedure, which can take several months or even years, depending on the individual case.
Once we finish the pre-surgical preparations, our surgeon will perform the double jaw surgery under general anesthesia.
During it, our surgeon will make incisions inside the mouth to access the jawbones and reposition them according to the treatment plan. Sometimes, we use bone grafts or chin implants to achieve the desired results.
Our surgeon will then close the incisions using dissolvable sutures and then carefully monitor you during the recovery.
Recovery and post-operative care
The recovery process following double jaw surgery can vary from person to person, but generally, it involves a few weeks of swelling, discomfort, and a restricted diet.
Your surgeon will provide detailed post-operative instructions, which may include pain management strategies, oral hygiene practices, and dietary guidelines.
We advise you to follow these instructions diligently to promote healing and minimize complications. So you can plan ahead, keep in mind that you may need to take time off work or school to allow yourself ample rest and recovery.
We’ll work with you to schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress, adjust the orthodontic treatment if necessary, and address any concerns or questions you may have.
Double jaw surgery is a transformative procedure that can correct skeletal irregularities, enhance facial aesthetics, and improve functionality. By understanding the purpose, preparation, procedure, and recovery, you can make an informed decision and establish realistic expectations.
Remember, our skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeon can guide you through the process and help you achieve the desired outcomes. With proper planning, care, and patience, double jaw surgery can give you a new lease on life and a confident, balanced smile!