Orthognathic Surgery

Orthognathic surgery is another term for jaw surgery, or corrective jaw surgery, and is performed by a Maxillofacial and Oral Surgeon (MFOS).

ABOUT PROCEDURE

The purpose of jaw surgery is to correct a wide range of minor and major skeletal and dental irregularities by straightening and realigning the jaws and teeth using surgical plates, templates and screws. The most common of these is the correction of malocclusion or improper bites such as overbites, underbites, crossbites and open bites.

OPERATION INFORMATION

Hospitalisation	2 days
Anaesthesia	General
Duration	1-4 hours
Recovery Period	1-2 weeks
Stich Removal	None required

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is corrective jaw surgery the same as plastic surgery or cosmetic surgery?

Orthognathic surgery, over and above changing one’s appearance, improves breathing, chewing, swallowing and speaking issues where it has become a problem in the daily lives of patients. This medical procedure is, therefore, necessary to prevent more expensive medical and dental problems later in life. Although orthognatic surgery is primarily to correct function, one can expect positive aesthetic changes as well.
How do I know if I need corrective jaw surgery?

Over and above an obvious improper bite, you may experience symptoms such as difficulty in breathing, chewing and swallowing, excessive wearing of your teeth, inability to make your lips meet without straining, or sleep apnea.
How will corrective jaw surgery affect my teeth?

Orthognathic surgery often aims to improve the function, fit and alignment of your teeth. In such cases, Dr Beukes will work closely with your orthodontist to ensure that the procedures in place before and after surgery support this purpose.
What is the overall timeline of correcting my jaw?

The first step involves the orthodontist applying braces on your teeth for between 12 and 18 months to prepare your teeth for surgery. After your surgery you will need to allow between 6 and 12 weeks for the healing process, during which the orthodontist will do the final adjustment of the teeth (this may be followed by retainers upon removal). Therefore, the entire orthodontic process (including surgery and braces) usually takes 2 years.