Upper and lower jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) is a procedure that corrects jaw misalignment and improves facial harmony. Dr. Fahradyan offers this surgery to address functional and aesthetic concerns by repositioning the jaws and enhancing bite functionality.
Upper & Lower Jaw Surgery
Correct Jaw
Misalignment Concerns
Upper and lower jaw surgery, medically referred to as orthognathic surgery, is a corrective jaw surgery procedure designed to address jaw misalignment issues. Often necessitated by conditions like malocclusion, skeletal discrepancies, or facial deformities, this surgery aims to enhance both function and appearance. Dr. Fahradyan carefully repositions the upper and lower jaws, aligning them properly to improve bite functionality, speech, and overall facial symmetry. This surgery can have profound aesthetic benefits, boosting self-confidence and overall quality of life.
Upper & Lower Jaw Surgery Corrects:
- Misalignment of upper and lower teeth (malocclusion)
- Overbites, underbites, crossbites, and other bite issues
- Facial asymmetry caused by jaw misalignment
- Speech problems caused by jaw misalignment
- Obstructive sleep apnea and other breathing difficulties
- Temporomandibular joint disorders that cause jaw pain and dysfunction
- Congenital or acquired facial abnormalities
Upper Jaw Surgery
Upper jaw surgery, or maxillary osteotomy, is a specialized orthognathic procedure to correct various issues related to the upper jaw or maxilla. It involves careful surgical repositioning of the upper jaw bone to address conditions such as overbites, underbites, open bites, facial asymmetry, and dental misalignment. This can improve function and aesthetics, ensuring proper alignment of the upper jaw with the lower jaw.
Lower Jaw Surgery
Lower jaw surgery, or mandibular osteotomy, is a surgical procedure that focuses on correcting problems related to the lower jaw or mandible. It involves precise repositioning of the lower jaw bone to treat underbites, overbites, jaw misalignment, and facial asymmetry. This enhances bite function, aligns the lower jaw with the upper jaw, and contributes to overall facial aesthetics. Lower jaw surgery can have a profound impact on your oral health.
Upper & Lower Jaw Surgery Preparation Guidelines:
- Schedule a consultation to discuss your medical history, goals, and expectations.
- Undergo necessary medical tests and assessments to ensure you are a suitable candidate.
- If you smoke, quit several weeks before surgery to reduce complications and promote healing.
- Inform your surgeon about all your medications, supplements, and allergies.
- Follow preoperative dietary and exercise guidelines to optimize your health.
- Plan for someone to drive you home after the procedure due to post-anesthesia effects.
- Prepare a comfortable recovery area at home with the necessary supplies.
- Ensure you have a support network in place for emotional and physical assistance.
- Abstain from food and drink for a specified period before surgery.
Upper & Lower Jaw Surgery Aftercare Guidelines:
- Keep an eye on post-surgery swelling and use ice packs as directed to reduce it.
- Take prescribed pain medications and follow the recommended dosage schedule.
- Stick to a soft diet to avoid putting excess pressure on the jaws while they heal.
- Maintain good oral hygiene with gentle brushing and prescribed mouthwash.
- Avoid strenuous physical activities and lifting heavy objects during the recovery period.
- Engage in speech therapy as recommended to address any speech difficulties.
- Perform jaw exercises as instructed by your surgeon to aid in recovery.
- Be cautious to prevent accidental bumps or injuries to the treated area.
- Immediately inform your surgeon of any unexpected symptoms or complications.
Upper & Lower Jaw Surgery FAQs
How is upper and lower jaw surgery performed?
The surgery involves making incisions inside the mouth to access the jawbones. Dr. Fahradyan then repositions the jaws to correct the alignment issue. Small screws, plates, or wires may stabilize the bones. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia.
Is upper and lower jaw surgery painful?
Patients may experience discomfort after surgery, but pain is managed with prescribed medications. Most individuals find the pain manageable.
How long is the recovery period for upper and lower jaw surgery?
The recovery time varies but generally ranges from several weeks to a few months. Full healing, including the complete resolution of swelling and the return to normal jaw function, may take several months. However, normal activities can be resumed within a week or two.
Will there be visible scars after the surgery?
No visible scars are present since incisions are made inside the mouth. However, you may have minor scarring within the oral cavity, which is not visible externally.
Are there risks associated with upper and lower jaw surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, including infection, bleeding, nerve injury, and anesthesia-related complications. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you during the consultation and take necessary precautions to minimize them.
Why Choose
Dr. Artur Fahradyan?
Dr. Artur Fahradyan is a board-eligible plastic surgeon with a residency in plastic and reconstructive surgery from the University of Southern California. Our practice is committed to providing exceptional patient care, prioritizing comfort, safety, and well-being from the moment you walk through our doors to your full recovery. If you’re seeking guidance and personalized care, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Fahradyan.