NuFace Hospital on August 5, 2024 Written by 
NextLevel Web Solution AgencyUnderstanding the Different Types of Jaw Surgery
Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a corrective procedure designed to address various functional and aesthetic issues with the jaw. This type of surgery can resolve problems related to misaligned jaws, bite abnormalities, and other skeletal discrepancies that affect chewing, speaking, breathing, and overall facial symmetry.
There are three primary types of jaw surgery, each focusing on different parts of the jaw: upper jaw surgery, lower jaw surgery, and double jaw surgery. These surgeries, typically performed by maxillofacial surgeons, aim to correct structural issues that cannot be resolved by orthodontic treatment alone.
Upper Jaw Surgery (Maxillary Osteotomy)
Upper jaw surgery, or maxillary osteotomy, is performed to correct issues with the upper jaw (maxilla). This type of surgery addresses various problems such as a receding upper jaw, an overly protruding upper jaw, and an open bite (where the upper and lower teeth do not meet properly). It can also be performed to correct asymmetry in the face or improve issues related to breathing, such as obstructive sleep apnea.
Common Reasons for Upper Jaw Surgery:
Overbite or Underbite: This occurs when the upper jaw either overlaps the lower jaw excessively (overbite) or falls behind it (underbite). In many cases, an underdeveloped or overdeveloped upper jaw is the cause.
Crossbite: When the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, leading to a misalignment of the bite, surgery can be used to correct this condition.
Open Bite: In this situation, the upper and lower teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed. Upper jaw surgery can help close the bite, improving both appearance and function.
Facial Asymmetry: A crooked or imbalanced upper jaw can affect overall facial symmetry. Corrective surgery can realign the upper jaw to restore balance to the face.
Cleft Palate or Other Birth Defects: Upper jaw surgery is often required to correct congenital issues such as a cleft palate, which affects the alignment of the upper jaw and teeth.
Procedure and Recovery
During an upper jaw surgery, the surgeon makes an incision above the upper teeth, allowing them to access the maxilla. The jaw is then carefully repositioned and secured using plates and screws. This surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, and patients often require a combination of surgery and orthodontics for optimal results.
Recovery typically takes several weeks. Patients may experience swelling, discomfort, and limited jaw movement initially, but most are able to resume normal activities within 6–8 weeks. Full recovery and final alignment results may take several months.
Lower Jaw Surgery (Mandibular Osteotomy)
Lower jaw surgery, or mandibular osteotomy, is designed to correct misalignment of the lower jaw (mandible). Conditions like a receding or protruding lower jaw can cause significant problems with chewing, speaking, and overall facial balance. Lower jaw surgery can realign the mandible for improved function and appearance.
Common Reasons for Lower Jaw Surgery:
Underbite: This occurs when the lower jaw extends forward beyond the upper jaw, causing the lower teeth to overlap the upper teeth. It can create difficulties in eating, speaking, and maintaining proper oral hygiene.
`Overbite: Conversely, a receding lower jaw can result in an overbite, where the upper teeth extend far over the lower teeth. This issue can also impair normal chewing and speech.
Jaw Imbalance: A lower jaw that is too long or too short can lead to an imbalanced facial appearance. Corrective surgery can restore proper proportions to the face.
Chronic Jaw Pain or TMJ Disorders: Misaligned jaws often contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, causing chronic pain and discomfort. Realigning the jaw through surgery can alleviate this pain.
Procedure and Recovery
In lower jaw surgery, the surgeon makes incisions inside the mouth along the lower gumline, separating the lower jaw so it can be repositioned. Once aligned, the jaw is held in place using screws and plates. This procedure, like upper jaw surgery, is done under general anesthesia and typically involves collaboration with an orthodontist.
Recovery from lower jaw surgery also involves swelling, discomfort, and restricted jaw movement. Patients may be on a liquid or soft diet for several weeks. Full recovery can take several months, but most patients notice significant improvements in jaw function within a few weeks of the procedure.
Double Jaw Surgery (Bimaxillary Osteotomy)
Double jaw surgery, also called bimaxillary osteotomy, involves operating on both the upper and lower jaws simultaneously. This type of surgery is typically recommended for patients who have severe misalignment of both jaws, leading to significant issues with function and appearance. It is considered more complex than either upper or lower jaw surgery alone and is usually performed to address extreme bite problems, facial asymmetry, or other skeletal irregularities.
Common Reasons for Double Jaw Surgery:
Severe Underbite or Overbite: In some cases, both the upper and lower jaws need to be corrected to achieve proper alignment.
Facial Imbalance or Asymmetry: Patients with both upper and lower jaw imbalances may require double jaw surgery to restore facial harmony and symmetry.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Double jaw surgery is often performed to correct structural issues that contribute to sleep apnea, such as a restricted airway caused by misaligned jaws.
Chewing and Speech Difficulties: Severe misalignment can make chewing and speaking difficult. By adjusting both jaws, double jaw surgery can greatly improve these functions.
Procedure and Recovery
Double jaw surgery is more involved than single jaw surgeries. It requires precise planning to ensure both jaws are aligned properly. The procedure involves repositioning both the upper and lower jaws, and like other jaw surgeries, plates and screws are used to secure the new positions.
The recovery period for double jaw surgery is longer, usually involving 6–8 weeks of initial healing, followed by several months for full recovery. Patients should expect more swelling, bruising, and discomfort, but the results are often life-changing, offering improved facial balance, bite function, and overall appearance.
Jaw surgery, whether it’s upper, lower, or double jaw surgery, plays a crucial role in correcting jaw alignment issues that can affect both health and aesthetics.
These procedures are tailored to the specific needs of the patient, addressing concerns ranging from bite problems to facial asymmetry and even breathing issues.
With advances in surgical techniques and collaboration with orthodontic treatment, jaw surgery offers transformative results that enhance both functionality and appearance.
Though recovery can be lengthy, the long-term benefits of improved jaw alignment, pain relief, and enhanced confidence make the process worthwhile.
If you’re experiencing difficulties related to jaw misalignment, consulting with a qualified maxillofacial surgeon can help you explore your options and find the best solution tailored to your needs.
