Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery
What Is Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is corrective jaw surgery performed to fix severe skeletal and dental irregularities involving the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both. It improves bite function, facial appearance, and overall oral health.
This surgery is often combined with orthodontic treatment (braces) for best results.
Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, is a specialized procedure used to correct irregularities of the jaw bones and realign the jaws and teeth to improve function, appearance, and overall oral health. This surgery is often recommended for patients with severe bite problems, jaw misalignment, sleep apnea, or facial asymmetry that cannot be adequately treated with braces or orthodontics alone. By repositioning the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both, orthognathic surgery helps restore proper chewing, speaking, and breathing functions, while enhancing facial balance.
Procedure
The procedure typically involves close collaboration between an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Before surgery, patients usually undergo orthodontic treatment (braces) for 12 to 18 months to align teeth properly. The surgery itself is performed under general anesthesia, where the surgeon makes incisions inside the mouth to access the jawbones, minimizing visible scarring. The jaws are then carefully repositioned and secured with plates and screws. Hospital stays usually last 1 to 3 days, and follow-up care involves both surgical and orthodontic monitoring to ensure optimal healing and alignment.
- Pre-Surgical Phase
- Comprehensive orthodontic treatment (braces) to align teeth (usually 12–18 months)
- 3D imaging and surgical planning
- Medical clearance and anesthesia consultation
- Surgery Day
- Performed under general anesthesia (in hospital)
- Surgeon makes cuts inside the mouth (no visible scars)
- Jaw bones are repositioned and fixed with plates and screws
- Surgery lasts 2–5 hours depending on complexity
- Post-Surgical Phase
- Hospital stay of 1–3 days for monitoring
- Soft or liquid diet for several weeks
- Continued orthodontic treatment to fine-tune bite
Cost
Orthognathic surgery is a complex procedure, and costs vary widely depending on the extent of surgery, geographic location, and surgeon’s expertise. The total cost generally ranges from $20,000 to $40,000 or more, which often includes pre- and post-surgical orthodontics, hospital fees, anesthesia, and surgeon’s fees. Insurance coverage depends on the medical necessity of the procedure—many plans cover at least part of the cost if the surgery is required to correct functional problems such as severe malocclusion or breathing difficulties.
Cost
Orthognathic surgery is a complex procedure, and costs vary widely depending on the extent of surgery, geographic location, and surgeon’s expertise. The total cost generally ranges from $20,000 to $40,000 or more, which often includes pre- and post-surgical orthodontics, hospital fees, anesthesia, and surgeon’s fees. Insurance coverage depends on the medical necessity of the procedure—many plans cover at least part of the cost if the surgery is required to correct functional problems such as severe malocclusion or breathing difficulties.
Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s include following all pre-surgical instructions carefully, maintaining good oral hygiene, and attending all scheduled follow-ups with your surgeon and orthodontist. Post-surgery, follow a soft or liquid diet as advised, take prescribed medications to manage pain and prevent infection, and apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
Don’ts include smoking, strenuous physical activity, and eating hard or crunchy foods during the recovery phase. Avoid touching or disturbing surgical sites and do not miss any appointments, as proper healing depends on careful monitoring.
Recovery and Outlook
Recovery from orthognathic surgery can take several weeks to months. Initial swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common in the first 1 to 2 weeks, gradually improving with time. Most patients can return to work or school within 2 to 6 weeks but should avoid heavy physical activity for at least 6 weeks. Full healing and bone remodeling may take up to 12 months. When combined with orthodontic treatment, the surgery often results in improved bite function, facial aesthetics, and quality of life. Long-term outlook is excellent, with most patients achieving stable, lasting results.
| Time Frame | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| First week | Swelling, bruising, pain managed with meds; limited mouth opening |
| 2–6 weeks | Gradual improvement in swelling and function |
| 6 weeks – 3 months | Return to normal diet and activities; continued healing |
| 3–12 months | Full bone healing and final orthodontic adjustments |
