Orthognathic surgery, also called corrective jaw surgery or jaw surgery, repositions the upper jaw, lower jaw or chin to correct bite problems, jaw asymmetry and chewing, speech or breathing difficulties. It is usually planned together with an orthodontist and carried out by an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon under general anaesthesia. This guide explains jaw surgery in Kerala and India: when it is considered, how it is planned and done, recovery and risks. Jaw surgery services are available at Newface, Chengannur, Kerala.

Also read: Jaw Surgery in India, Bijaw Surgery, Lower Jaw Protrusion Surgery, Jaw Angle Reduction Surgery

What Is Jaw Surgery?

Jaw surgery, also called orthognathic surgery, corrects irregularities of the jaw bones and aligns them with the teeth so that the jaws work properly. Because the jaw position also shapes the lower face, the surgery can change facial balance as well.

Who May Need Jaw Surgery?

Jaw surgery is considered when a problem cannot be corrected with braces alone, for example:

• Underbite, overbite or open bite
• Facial or jaw asymmetry (read more about facial asymmetry correction)
• Difficulty chewing, biting or speaking
• Jaw position linked to obstructive sleep apnoea (read more about snoring treatment in India)
• Jaw problems after injury or from birth (congenital)

Surgery is usually done only after jaw growth is complete.

Types of Jaw Surgery

• Upper jaw (maxilla) surgery: the upper jaw is repositioned, usually with a Le Fort I osteotomy.
• Lower jaw (mandible) surgery: the lower jaw is repositioned, usually with a bilateral sagittal split osteotomy.
• Bijaw (double jaw) surgery: both jaws are repositioned together. Read more about bijaw surgery in India.
• Chin surgery (genioplasty): the chin is repositioned along with jaw surgery where needed. Read more about genioplasty.

How Is the Treatment Planned?

In most cases your orthodontist and your surgeon plan the treatment together. The usual steps are:

1. Consultation and assessment: examination, X-rays and 3D scans.
2. Pre-surgical orthodontics: braces to align the teeth before surgery, often for several months.
3. Surgery: the upper jaw, lower jaw and/or chin is repositioned and fixed with small plates and screws.
4. Post-surgical orthodontics: braces are fine-tuned after surgery.

What Happens During Surgery?

The surgery is done under general anaesthesia, and incisions are usually made inside the mouth. Depending on your case, the surgeon may reposition the upper jaw, the lower jaw, the chin, or a combination.

Hospital Stay and Recovery

• Hospital stay: usually about 3 to 4 days, with monitoring after surgery.
• Swelling: peaks in the first few days and settles over the next few weeks.
• Diet: a liquid or soft diet at first, as advised by your surgeon.
• Healing: the jaw bones take about 6 to 8 weeks to heal, and many people feel back to normal activity in around 3 months. The final result can take longer to settle.

Recovery varies from person to person, so follow your surgeon’s instructions closely. Read more about recovery after jaw surgery.

Possible Benefits

• Better bite and chewing
• Improved jaw alignment and facial balance
• Easier breathing in selected cases
• Improved speech in selected cases

Results vary from person to person.

Risks of Jaw Surgery

As with any major surgery, risks include swelling, bleeding, infection, temporary or lasting numbness of the lip or chin, and the possibility of the jaw shifting back (relapse). Jaw joint (TMJ) problems can also be affected. Your surgeon should explain these before you decide. Read more about TMJ disorders and surgery.

What Affects the Cost of Jaw Surgery in Kerala?

The cost depends on the type of surgery (one jaw, both jaws, chin), the surgeon’s fees, the hospital and length of stay, anaesthesia, tests, orthodontic treatment before and after surgery, and follow-up. A surgeon can give you an estimate after assessing you. See also jaw surgery cost in Kerala.

Questions to Ask Your Surgeon Before Surgery

• Do I need jaw surgery, and what are the alternatives?
• Which type of surgery is planned, and why?
• What are the risks that apply to me?
• How long will orthodontic treatment take before and after surgery?
• What does recovery involve, and how long will it take?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is jaw surgery painful?
You are under general anaesthesia during surgery. Afterwards there is swelling and discomfort, which is managed with medicines prescribed by your surgeon.

How long does recovery take?
Most of the swelling settles in a few weeks and the bones heal over about 6 to 8 weeks. Many people feel back to normal in around 3 months.

Do I need braces for jaw surgery?
Usually yes. Braces align the teeth before surgery and finish the bite afterwards.

Will there be scars on my face?
Incisions are generally made inside the mouth, so visible facial scars are usually avoided. Your surgeon will confirm the approach for your case.

How do I know if I need jaw surgery?
An assessment by an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and your orthodontist, with X-rays and scans, will show whether braces alone are enough.

What is the difference between jaw surgery and jaw angle reduction?
Jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) repositions the jaws to correct bite and alignment. Jaw angle reduction is a contouring procedure that reshapes the corner of the lower jaw.

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Information provided by: Dr. Mathew P C, [QUALIFICATIONS], Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. Registration status: [REGISTERED]. [STATE MEDICAL COUNCIL / NATIONAL MEDICAL REGISTER] registration no.: [NUMBER].

This page provides general health information for education only. It is not a substitute for medical advice and does not promise or guarantee any result. Outcomes vary from person to person.

Newface, 8J4F+X7X, Hatchery Junction, Chengannur, Kerala 689122. Phone: +91 8330077198

 

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