Orthognathic Surgery / Corrective Jaw Surgery in Northern Virginia
Orthognathic surgery is the surgical treatment of congenital or developmental deformities of the bones of the upper and lower jaws and mid-face that cannot be resolved by other treatments such as orthodontic therapy. These skeletal deformities, which can include sever over- or underbites, cannot usually be corrected by orthodontic therapy (braces) alone. A collaborative effort between the orthodontist and oral and maxillofacial surgeon is usually required. This surgery is almost always performed in a hospital setting.
Our doctors will be happy to discuss the surgical possibilities with you at a consultation appointment. If study models and other records are available from an orthodontist, you should bring them with you to the consultation. If unavailable, appropriate records can be made in our office. Recovery time can be as short as one to two weeks, or sometimes longer depending upon the patient and extent of the surgery.
What is orthognathic surgery?
Orthognathic surgery, or corrective jaw surgery, is a treatment that re-aligns the bones of the upper and lower jaw. It helps resolve deformities such as severe over- or underbites that cannot be corrected by braces alone.
What kind of issues does orthognathic surgery resolve?
- Difficulty in chewing, biting or swallowing
- Speech problems
- Chronic jaw or TMJ pain
- Open bite
- Protruding jaw
- Underbite
- Breathing problems
What does the treatment involve?
First, your oral surgeon will take X-rays and make models of your teeth to judge what kind of procedure is necessary. Braces may be used before the surgery to align the teeth. Once the teeth are properly aligned, your orthognathic surgeon will align the jaws and may adjust the chin to compensate for facial imbalances.
Are there any side effects?
If you have upper jaw surgery, your nose and sinuses may be congested from several days to several weeks after surgery. Additionally, the nerves in your jaws can become temporarily irritated or disrupted, causing a numb or tingling feeling.
Where can I get corrective jaw surgery?
Corrective Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery) is available at all three of our offices: Annandale, Manassas, and Woodbridge.
