Jaw structure disorders may affect not only facial aesthetics but also essential functions such as breathing, chewing, speaking, and sleep quality. Orthognathic surgery, which is performed when the upper and lower jaws are not properly aligned, is an advanced treatment that repositions the jawbones into their ideal anatomical position. Planned collaboratively by orthodontists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons, this treatment process can help achieve both functional and aesthetic improvements.
What Is Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is a treatment that aims to correct positional abnormalities of the lower jaw, upper jaw, or both jaws through surgical methods. Conditions such as a protruding or recessed jaw, jaw deviation to the right or left, facial asymmetry, and bite problems are among the primary indications for this procedure. The harmonious relationship between the jawbones and teeth is essential for healthy chewing, clear speech, comfortable breathing, and balanced facial aesthetics. Orthognathic surgery is a comprehensive treatment that improves not only appearance but also quality of life.
In Which Cases Is Orthognathic Surgery Performed?
Orthognathic surgery may be considered after jaw development has been completed in the following situations:
- Excessively protruding or recessed lower jaw
- Forward or backward positioning of the upper jaw
- Severe bite discrepancies between the upper and lower jaws
- Noticeable facial asymmetry
- Open bite or deep bite problems
- Difficulty chewing
- Speech disorders
- Sleep apnea and snoring problems
- Functional disorders of the jaw joint
- Jaw deformities caused by trauma, tumors, or congenital conditions
- Advanced skeletal abnormalities that cannot be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone
What Causes Jaw Structure Disorders?
Genetic factors play a significant role in the development of jaw disorders. Jaw abnormalities present in one or both parents may also occur in their children. In addition;
- Facial and jaw trauma during childhood
- Congenital developmental disorders
- Respiratory tract problems
- Long-term mouth breathing habits
- Certain diseases affecting jaw development
- Tumors and advanced infections may negatively affect the normal development of the jawbones.
Preoperative Evaluation for Orthognathic Surgery
Comprehensive planning forms the foundation of successful orthognathic treatment. Before treatment, a detailed clinical examination is performed. Panoramic X-rays, cephalometric analyses, and three-dimensional dental tomography scans are then obtained to evaluate the condition of the jawbones in detail.
Thanks to digital planning technologies, the extent of jaw movement required during surgery can be determined precisely in advance. This makes it possible to anticipate both functional and aesthetic outcomes.
The First Stage of Orthognathic Treatment: Orthodontic Preparation
Orthognathic surgery usually does not begin directly with the operation. The first stage involves orthodontic treatment. During this period, the teeth are positioned ideally on the jawbones.
This preparation phase, carried out using braces or clear aligners, may last approximately 6 to 18 months depending on the patient's condition. Once the orthodontic preparation is completed, surgical planning enters its final stage.
How Is Orthognathic Surgery Performed?
Orthognathic surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Since most incisions are made inside the mouth, visible external scars generally do not occur.
The surgeon repositions the jawbones according to the preoperative plan and secures them using special titanium plates and screws.
Depending on the complexity of the procedure, the operation usually takes between 2 and 5 hours.
Does Orthognathic Surgery Leave Scars?
Thanks to modern surgical techniques, most procedures are performed through incisions made inside the mouth. Therefore, visible facial scars are generally not expected. In rare cases where external incisions are necessary, they usually become much less noticeable over time.
Is Pain Felt During the Operation?
Since the procedure is performed under general anesthesia, the patient does not feel pain during surgery. After the operation, mild pain, swelling, bruising, and temporary numbness may occur. Taking the prescribed medications regularly and following the surgeon's recommendations can significantly support the recovery process.
Recovery Process After Orthognathic Surgery
Swelling and tenderness of the face are considered normal during the first few days. Most patients can return to their daily routines within a few days. A soft and liquid diet is generally recommended during the first weeks.
Bone healing is typically completed within several months, while the final bite alignment is achieved through the completion of orthodontic treatment. Regular follow-up appointments are important for the success of the treatment.
Advantages of Orthognathic Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is not performed solely for aesthetic purposes. The treatment may provide several functional benefits:
- More balanced and aesthetic facial appearance
- Improved chewing function
- Enhanced speech quality
- Reduction of breathing difficulties
- Improvement in sleep apnea and snoring symptoms
- Reduced stress on the jaw joint
- Better long-term preservation of the teeth
- Improved self-confidence and quality of life
What Happens If Jaw Disorders Are Left Untreated?
If left untreated, jaw disorders may lead to more serious problems over time. Bite problems can cause excessive tooth wear. Temporomandibular joint disorders may develop. Chewing and speech functions may be negatively affected. In addition, aesthetic concerns may have adverse effects on a person's social life and psychological well-being.
Is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?
For most patients undergoing orthognathic surgery, orthodontic treatment is an essential part of the process. Proper positioning of the teeth directly affects the success of the surgical procedure. Therefore, close coordination between the orthodontist and the oral and maxillofacial surgeon is extremely important.
What Are the Techniques Used in Orthognathic Surgery?
Different surgical techniques may be used depending on the type of jaw deformity:
- Le Fort I osteotomy for the upper jaw
- Bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO) for the lower jaw
- Genioplasty for chin correction
- Combined jaw surgeries for advanced cases
The appropriate surgical technique is determined based on a detailed clinical examination and imaging findings.
What Is Dentrum's Approach to Orthognathic Surgery?
At Dentrum Adana Private Oral and Dental Health Polyclinic, orthognathic surgery is planned using digital imaging systems and a multidisciplinary approach. Through the coordinated work of orthodontists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons, personalized treatment plans are created to address both the functional and aesthetic expectations of each patient. The goal is not only to correct the bite but also to establish a healthy oral structure, balanced facial aesthetics, and an improved quality of life.
Where Can Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery Be Performed in Adana?
Orthognathic surgery is a specialized treatment that requires advanced planning and a multidisciplinary approach. Therefore, it should be performed in centers where orthodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and when necessary, plastic surgeons work together in coordination.
In Adana, orthognathic surgery can be performed in university hospitals, oral and dental health centers, and private clinics equipped for advanced surgical procedures. Before treatment, three-dimensional imaging is obtained, the jaw structure is analyzed in detail, and a personalized treatment plan is prepared.
Patients considering orthognathic surgery are advised to choose experienced centers capable of managing both the orthodontic preparation and surgical stages under one roof. In Adana, Dentrum Oral and Dental Health Polyclinic plans personalized jaw treatments through the coordinated collaboration of orthodontic and surgical specialists.
How Are Orthognathic Surgery Costs Determined?
The cost of orthognathic surgery varies from patient to patient because the treatment is not a standard operation but a comprehensive treatment process planned individually.
The main factors affecting the cost include:
- The severity of the jaw deformity
- Whether single-jaw or double-jaw surgery is required
- The duration of orthodontic treatment
- The imaging and digital planning technologies used
- Length of hospital stay
- Requirement for general anesthesia
- Whether additional surgical procedures are needed
- The experience of the treating team
Therefore, the exact cost of orthognathic surgery can only be determined after a detailed clinical examination, radiological evaluation, and individualized treatment planning.
Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery Hakkında Sıkça Sorulan Sorular
Orthognathic surgery is generally performed after jaw growth has been completed, typically at 17–18 years of age or older. In certain cases, treatment planning may vary based on the surgeon's clinical evaluation and the patient's individual circumstances.
The duration of the operation depends on the complexity of the procedure, but it typically takes 2 to 5 hours to complete.
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, so no pain is felt during surgery. After the operation, any discomfort or tenderness can usually be managed with prescribed medications.
Yes. Swelling and mild bruising are common during the first few days after surgery. These are normal parts of the healing process and generally improve significantly within a few weeks.
The titanium plates and screws used in orthognathic surgery are biocompatible and, for most patients, can remain in place permanently without causing problems. If necessary, they can be removed based on the surgeon's clinical judgment.
Yes. Because the jawbones are repositioned into their ideal alignment, the facial profile typically becomes more balanced and harmonious. These changes occur as a natural result of correcting the underlying skeletal structure and improving jaw function.
With careful treatment planning, successful surgery, and appropriate orthodontic follow-up, the results can be maintained for many years. Following your surgeon's and orthodontist's recommendations is important for long-term stability.
In the vast majority of cases, orthodontic treatment is an essential part of the overall treatment plan. Proper alignment of the teeth before surgery plays a critical role in achieving optimal surgical outcomes.
In some cases of obstructive sleep apnea associated with a retruded lower jaw, advancing the jawbones can help widen the airway and may lead to significant improvement in symptoms. Suitability for this approach is determined through a comprehensive clinical evaluation.
No. The primary goal of orthognathic surgery is to improve jaw function, including chewing, speech, breathing, and overall bite alignment. Improvements in facial aesthetics are typically a natural consequence of correcting these functional issues.