Lower jaw protrusion, also called mandibular prognathism, is a condition in which the lower jaw sits further forward than the upper jaw, often causing an underbite and difficulty chewing or speaking. Corrective surgery for lower jaw protrusion in India is usually done as orthognathic (jaw) surgery, planned together with an orthodontist. This guide explains the causes, procedure, risks, recovery and cost factors. Newface in Chengannur offers jaw surgery in Kerala with Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Dr. Mathew PC.

 

Also read: Jaw Surgery in Kerala, Jaw Surgery in India, Bijaw Surgery in India, Genioplasty Surgery

Corrective jaw surgery is a big decision, so it helps to understand the surgery, its risks and its cost before you decide. This guide covers corrective jaw surgery in India: what it involves, the risks and complications, and the factors that affect the cost.

What Is Corrective Jaw Surgery?

Corrective jaw surgery, also called orthognathic surgery in India, is a surgical procedure to correct minor and major skeletal and dental irregularities of the jaw. These can include a lower jaw that sits too far forward (protrusion), underbite, overbite and crossbite.

It is often advised when braces or other dental treatment cannot correct the problem. It is performed by an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon under general anaesthesia, and involves cutting the jaw bones and repositioning them. The aim is to improve the bite, jaw function and facial balance. Like any surgery, it carries risks.

Why Is Surgery Needed for Lower Jaw Protrusion?

Lower jaw protrusion is not life-threatening, but it can affect quality of life. People with the condition may have difficulty biting, chewing or speaking, and some feel self-conscious about their appearance.

Common causes include:

• A lower jaw that has grown too far forward or is larger than usual
• An upper jaw that is small or set back, so the lower jaw looks prominent
• A combination of both, often running in families

 

Surgery is considered when orthodontic treatment alone is not enough, and it is usually done after jaw growth is complete.

Types of Corrective Surgery for Lower Jaw Protrusion

Your surgeon recommends the procedure after an examination and imaging. Options include:

• Mandibular setback (bilateral sagittal split osteotomy): the lower jaw is divided and moved backward to line up with the upper jaw.
• Maxillary advancement (Le Fort I osteotomy): the upper jaw is moved forward when it is small or set back.
• Bijaw (double jaw) surgery: both jaws are repositioned together. Read more about bijaw surgery in India.
• Genioplasty: the chin bone is repositioned to improve balance, sometimes along with jaw surgery. Read more about genioplasty.

Orthognathic surgery may also be combined with other facial procedures such as rhinoplasty, as planned with your surgeon.

Procedure for Lower Jaw Protrusion Surgery in India

Corrective surgery for lower jaw protrusion is recommended for people who have difficulty chewing or speaking because of the jaw position, or who have a bite that cannot be corrected with braces.

• Braces are usually placed before surgery to align the teeth.
• The surgery is done under general anaesthesia, with incisions inside the mouth.
• The jaw bone is cut and repositioned, and held in place with small plates and screws.
• The incisions are closed with stitches.
• The operation takes a few hours, and the hospital stay is usually a few days.

Risks of Corrective Surgery for Lower Jaw Protrusion

As with any major surgery, risks include infection, bleeding, nerve damage (numbness of the lip or chin), reaction to anaesthesia, asymmetry, and the jaw shifting back (relapse). The bite may not be corrected completely, and you may still need braces or other orthodontic treatment. Have realistic expectations, and discuss the risks with your surgeon before you decide.

Recovery After Surgery

• Swelling and pain are expected, and are managed with medicines prescribed by your surgeon.

• A soft or liquid diet is advised at first.

• Avoid strenuous activity for several weeks.
• Orthodontic treatment continues after surgery to finish the bite.
• Regular follow-up visits monitor healing.

 

Your surgeon will give you specific instructions for your case.

Cost of Corrective Surgery for Lower Jaw Protrusion in India

The cost depends on the severity of the condition and the type of surgery needed, such as single jaw surgery, bijaw surgery or genioplasty. It is commonly quoted in a range of about $1,500 to $10,000. It also depends on the surgeon, the hospital, anaesthesia, orthodontic treatment and follow-up care. Ask for a written estimate that lists what is included, and check with your insurer whether medically necessary surgery is partly covered.

How to Choose a Surgeon and Hospital

1. Make a list of qualified surgeons who treat jaw conditions.

2. Ask each surgeon about their experience with this type of surgery.

3. Ask about the surgical procedure and the recovery plan.
4. Ask whether previous patients’ results can be shown, with their consent.
5. Choose a surgeon you feel comfortable with who has experience in corrective jaw surgery.

About Dr. Mathew PC

Dr. Mathew PC is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at Newface with over 16 years of experience in facial and jaw surgery, including jaw surgery in Kerala and rhinoplasty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is lower jaw protrusion?
It is a condition in which the lower jaw sits further forward than the upper jaw, often causing an underbite and difficulty chewing or speaking.

How is lower jaw protrusion corrected?
Usually with orthognathic surgery, such as moving the lower jaw back, the upper jaw forward, or both, often with braces before and after surgery.

Is orthodontic treatment needed?
Usually yes. Braces align the teeth before surgery and finish the bite afterwards.

How long is the recovery?
Swelling is expected in the first weeks, and strenuous activity is avoided for several weeks. Your surgeon will advise based on your case.

Does insurance cover corrective jaw surgery?
Cover depends on your policy and on whether the surgery is medically necessary. Check with your insurer.

Book a Consultation

To discuss corrective surgery for lower jaw protrusion, book a consultation with Dr. Mathew PC.

Phone: +91 8330077198

Watch a video on lower jaw protrusion surgery.