Understanding Orthognathic Surgery
At Masters Orthodontics, we treat not only teeth but also the way the jaws and face work together. In some cases, braces or aligners alone are not enough to correct significant jaw imbalances. This is where orthognathic surgery – also known as corrective jaw surgery – can play an important role.
What is orthognathic surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is a planned surgical procedure to reposition the jaws. It can help improve the way your teeth fit together, restore balance to facial proportions, and address functional problems such as difficulty biting, chewing, speaking, or even breathing.
How does it work?
Treatment always involves a close partnership between your orthodontist and a specialist oral and maxillofacial surgeon. First, orthodontic treatment is carried out to carefully align the teeth in preparation for surgery. Once ready, the surgeon repositions the jaw(s) in hospital under a general anaesthetic. After surgery, further orthodontics fine-tunes the bite for long-lasting, stable results.
Teamwork is essential
Successful outcomes rely on excellent coordination between orthodontist, surgeon, and patient. Throughout your journey, we will work closely with our surgical colleagues and keep you fully informed at every stage, so you know what to expect.
What to expect after surgery
Most patients stay in hospital for one to three nights. Some swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal in the early stages, and you will be given advice and medication to help you recover. You will need to follow a soft diet for several weeks and attend regular reviews with both your surgeon and orthodontist. Over time, the swelling settles, function improves, and you can enjoy the benefits of a healthier bite, improved facial balance, and renewed confidence in your smile.
At Masters Orthodontics, we understand that orthognathic surgery is a big decision. We are here to guide you through every step, working together with trusted surgical colleagues to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Orthognathic surgery, also known as jaw surgery, is a treatment carried out by a specialist surgeon to reposition the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. It is combined with orthodontic treatment to improve the way the teeth and jaws fit together, enhance facial balance, and restore normal function.
You may need jaw surgery if your jaws are out of alignment in a way that braces alone cannot correct. Common reasons include difficulty biting or chewing, speech problems, jaw pain, an open bite, an underbite, or concerns with facial appearance and balance.
Dr. Masters will first use braces or aligners to prepare your teeth for surgery. The surgery itself is performed in hospital under general anaesthetic by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Afterwards, braces are used again to fine-tune your bite and ensure long-lasting results.
Most patients stay in hospital for one to three nights. Some swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal, but these improve with time. A soft diet is usually required for several weeks, and you will have regular check-ups with Dr. Masters and surgeon to monitor healing and progress.
Jaw surgery is a well-established and safe procedure carried out by experienced surgical teams. As with any surgery, there are risks, but Dr. Masters and the surgeon will discuss these with you and answer any questions so you can make a fully informed decision.
Orthognathic treatment is a long-term process. Orthodontic preparation before surgery usually takes 12–18 months, followed by the surgery itself, and then a further 6–12 months of orthodontic treatment afterwards. The total treatment time is typically around two to three years.
Jaw surgery can improve facial balance and harmony, so some changes to appearance are common. For many patients, this results in a more balanced profile and smile, which often boosts self-confidence. Dr. Masters and the surgeon will discuss expected changes with you in detail.
Jaw surgery can improve facial balance and harmony, so some changes to appearance are common. For many patients, this results in a more balanced profile and smile, which often boosts self-confidence. Dr. Masters and the surgeon will discuss expected changes with you in detail.
You will be under general anaesthetic during the procedure, so you will not feel any pain during surgery. Afterwards, some discomfort, swelling, and bruising are expected, but these are managed with medication and usually improve significantly within the first few weeks.
Most patients need around two to four weeks off work, school, or university to allow initial healing and to adapt to a soft diet. Your surgeon will provide guidance tailored to your individual situation.
In contemporary surgeries, the jaws are not wired together. Instead, small plates and screws are used to hold the bones securely in place, allowing you to open and close your mouth soon after surgery.
As with all surgery, there are risks such as infection, bleeding, numbness, or relapse of the jaw position. Serious complications are rare, and your surgical team will explain these in detail and take every precaution to keep risks to a minimum.
With proper planning and teamwork between Dr. Masters and the surgeon, results are highly stable. Patients typically enjoy improved bite function, facial balance, and comfort for many years to come. Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene help maintain long-term success.
