Orthognathic surgery refers to “straightening of the jaw(s) using surgery” [ortho – straight, gnathic – jaw(s)]. Whereas orthodontic treatment corrects the position of the teeth, orthognathic surgery positions the bones of the jaws (maxilla/mandible). One or both jaws may be surgically repositioned during the one operation.
This involves making cuts (osteotomies) in the bones and moving the cut segments into their predetermined position under a general anaesthetic. The surgery is normally preceded by a period of orthodontic treatment so that post-operatively both the teeth and the bones will be in their correct position. Finally, a short period of orthodontic treatment is then usually required to complete the alignment of the teeth.
All surgery carries potential risks. With orthognathic surgery, the major risks include bleeding; poor blood supply to the osteotomised jaw segments; infection; unfavourable bone cuts/splits; permanent numbness/tingling to lips, cheeks, and/or teeth; incorrect positioning of the jaws/segments; jaw joint problems; and damage to teeth. Your Surgeon will discuss these with you in more detail during your consultation appointments . Please remember however, that in the vast majority of cases, any associated problems are minor and easily attended to.