Orthognathic Surgery

Orthognathic surgery is performed to correct the structure of the jaw or face. It is sometimes referred to as corrective jaw surgery, and frequently used to improve a misalignment of the jaw or teeth. This process may make it easier for someone to chew, speak or breathe; and while it may have a significant impact on appearance, orthognathic surgery is performed primarily to correct functional problems.

There are a number of specific disorders that may lead to orthognathic surgery:

• Sleep apnea
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders 
• Severe orthodontic problems
• Growth disorders
• Cleft palate

At Houston Methodist, dentists, orthodontists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons work together to determine whether a patient will benefit from orthognathic surgery.
 
Before surgery takes place, it is very likely that there will be a significant period during which the patient will be required to wear braces or other orthodontics. It may also be necessary to wear orthodontics after the surgery has been completed.
 
In the past, surgical patients often had their jaws wired shut for weeks after surgery. This is no longer common, and a patient may be able to resume most ordinary daily function relatively soon after the procedure