Orthognathic surgery is basically surgery performed on the bones of the jaws to change their position and size. It involves repositioning all or part of the upper or lower jaw or chin in alignment. Sometimes, bone may be added, taken away or reshaped. When the jaws are moved forwards or backwards, up or down, or rotated, the soft tissue in the chin, cheeks, lips and tip of the nose move accordingly. Therefore, once the jaws are correctly positioned, the architecture of the facial skeleton is changed and a harmony between the facial features is achieved. This results in a facial profile that is pleasing or in fact even more beautiful to look at.

If the upper jaw is comparatively bigger than the lower jaw, it may lead to a “gummy” smile. Excess gum tissue may be visible which may deflect from the beauty of the smile. This disparity in the size and shape of the jaw bones can be corrected by Orthognathic surgery. The jaw size is decreased and the jaw is placed in a normal position drastically improving smile and appearance.

The shape of the nose is influenced by the shape of the upper jaw. Sometimes, the sharpness of the nose is not apparent because the upper jaw is too big and protruding. In such cases, correcting the shape, size and position of the upper jaw also results in giving the nose a sharp pristine look. More severe variations in the shape of the nose can be corrected along with jaw correction in the same surgical procedure.

Before deciding the line of treatment, a detailed assessment and analysis of the face & facial bones needs to be done. Many a times, there is often a short period of orthodontic treatment done for subtle and fine detailing of the tooth positions.

The advantage of orthognathic surgery is that immediate results are seen. Also since these surgeries are approached from inside the mouth there are no visible external scars.

Jaw correction surgery brings the teeth and jaws into proper position for better health and appearance. For some patients, the surgery can dramatically enhance appearance and self esteem. Such surgeries hold the key for youngsters who go through a lot of psychological stress over their facial appearance.

It is normal that a patient who goes through the jaw reshaping or jaw correction surgery will feel pain or have some some discomfort after the orthognathic surgery, although the pain varies from one patient to another, depending on their pain tolerance level. So make sure that you take your medications as directed.

You will be able to shower on the second day after the jaw surgery, however, you need to avoid prolonged and hot shower, which may lead to bleeding of your lower jaw, if the surgery is performed there.

You must avoid exercises, any activity such as lifting or activities that may raise your blood pressure or pulse for at least a month following the orthognathic surgery. Any activity that may increase the blood pressure may result in bleeding since the blood vessels are still healing from the surgery. Gentle exercises can be done after 2 weeks, but don’t do any cardio for 4 to 6 weeks after the jaw reshaping. Don’t drive a vehicle for the next 48 hours.

It is common to have minor bleeding from the surgical area in the mouth or from the nose. The bleeding or oozing will usually last for 7 to 10 days after the jaw reshaping. However, when the bleeding activity is excessive, make sure to call your doctor.

Swelling is generally expected after the orthognathic surgery, but this also varies from patient to patient. A large degree of swelling may be anticipated over your cheek area as well as down, over your neck. Maximum swelling will occur at approximately 4 days post surgery, but will slowly subside after approximately 2 weeks. For the next 2 to 3 months, a little swelling about 10 – 20 % is anticipated. For the first 3 to 5 days following the jaw surgery, you can place ice on your face, when you are awake.

On the 4th day, it is recommended to have a warm water bottle aligned to your face, to help reduce the swelling.

For the first 24 hours, nausea and vomiting are common. If vomiting and nausea persist, make sure to let your doctor know.

Use the Pain medication, mouth rinse, and antibiotic prescribed by your doctor. Use them as instructed on the bottle.