ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY
WHAT IS ORTHOGNATIC SURGERY?
Sometimes braces are insufficient in correcting asymmetric appearances in the upper and lower jaws or the relative positions of the jaws. The surgical approach used to regulate jaw relationships in cases where growth and development cannot be directed is called orthognathic surgery. It is the situation we hear more often as jaw surgery among the public.
IN WHAT CASES IS ORTHOGNATIC SURGERY NECESSARY?
This method is used in cases of incompatibility between the upper and lower jaw positions, in cases where the jaws are narrow compared to each other, in cases of asymmetry in the jaws, in patients who need to have their airway widened (lower jaw recession), in cases where the upper jaw is recessed due to excessive growth of the lower jaw, in cases where the gum appearance is excessive and gum adjustment is not sufficient, and in patients who are not satisfied with their aesthetic profile to rearrange the profile.
DOES AN ORTHODONTIST ALSO PERFORM ORTHOGNATIC SURGERY?
Orthognathic surgery is a team effort. It consists of 2 stages. First, the teeth must be positioned correctly on the jaw by the orthodontist. After this arrangement, the correct position of the jaws is determined with the measurements made and a guide is prepared. According to this guide and planning, the jaw surgeon or plastic surgeon ensures that the jaws are positioned in the planned position with the surgery. Finally, the patient arranges the final movements of the teeth for the final closure with the orthodontist and completes the treatment.
DOES EVERY ORTHODONTIST PREPARE FOR JAWS SURGERY?
This field of orthodontics requires additional training and experience. For this reason, the number of orthodontists working specifically in this field is quite low.
DOES EVERY MAXILLOFACIAL SURGEON OR PLASTIC SURGEON PERFORM THESE SURGERIES?
These surgeries are a special area of work for both jaw surgeons and plastic surgeons. For this reason, not every surgeon or plastic surgeon performs this surgery. Also, this planning is a team effort. For this reason, orthodontists usually prefer to work with certain surgeons.
IS ORTHOGNATIC SURGERY RISKY?
Like any surgery, there are risks in jaw surgery. All these risks are explained to you in detail by both your orthodontist and your jaw surgeon or plastic surgeon during the examination phase.
CAN EVERYONE HAVE JAW SURGERY?
Anyone whose general health does not pose an obstacle to undergoing surgery can undergo surgery after the necessary preparations have been made, according to the tests and examinations to be performed.
WILL THERE BE A SCARS AFTER JAW SURGERY?
Since all surgical stages are performed through the mouth, no scars are left.
IS THERE A LOT OF SWELLING AFTER JAW SURGERY?
Swelling and bruising may occur during the recovery period after jaw surgery. Medications and ice application recommendations are often given after the procedure to help minimize this swelling and bruising.
WILL MY MOUTH REMAIN CLOSED AFTER JAW SURGERY?
After jaw surgery, the mouth is usually connected with a guide placed between the mouth for about 2 weeks. Only your orthodontist should open it during this period and perform the necessary cleanings and close it again.
HOW CAN I FEED DURING THIS TIME WITH MY JAW STOPPED?
During this period of time that is kept closed after jaw surgery, mostly high protein drinks or soup-like foods are recommended. These foods are mostly consumed with the help of a straw. After this closed period, they can slowly start chewing soft foods and consume them.
WHEN CAN I RETURN TO MY DAILY LIFE AFTER JAW SURGERY?
It may be necessary to stay in the hospital for one or two days after the surgery. You can walk from the hospital and go home. The first week is usually recommended to rest at home. At the end of the first week, the mouth is opened and closed with elastics. Afterwards, mouth opening and closing exercises are recommended. You can return to your daily life after the swelling and bruising have gone.