Jaw Surgery
Jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is a corrective procedure aimed at realigning the jawbones to improve both function and appearance. It is typically recommended for patients with severe jaw misalignment, bite issues, or facial asymmetry that cannot be corrected with orthodontics alone. The surgery can address problems like difficulty chewing, chronic jaw pain, and speech impairments, and sleep apnea while also enhancing facial harmony. Recovery involves a period of healing, during which the patient may need to follow a modified diet and limit physical activity. Keep reading to learn about the combined orthodontic and orthognathic surgery journey.
01
Orthodontics begin
The journey begins with the orthodontic consultation. Dr. Ranaweera may present you with jaw surgery as a treatment option. Any options that allow you to avoid jaw surgery will always be discussed, if available. If you decide to proceed with the surgical option, you will get your braces or Invisalign treatment started. Surgical cases are more complex, and require more planning and careful execution, but the results are often life-changing.
02
Surgical Consultation
As you approach the end of pre-surgical orthodontics, Dr. Ranaweera will send a letter to the surgical team informing them that it is time for you to meet with them and get all the information about the procedure. The surgeons will discuss the risks/benefits/what to expect etc., and give you a date for your surgery. Shortly before your surgery date, Dr. Ranaweera will see you to place hooks on your braces in preparation for surgery. If you had decided to proceed with Invisalign, you may get bonded hooks on your teeth (simpler cases), or you may be switched to regular braces (complex cases) for the surgery.
03
Surgery
Our exceptional oral & maxillofacial surgeons will take good care of you. You will be asleep for your surgery. There will be no cuts outside the face, all surgical cuts are made inside the mouth. You will spend 1-2 nights at the hospital, and will be on liquid diet for a few days as prescribed by your surgeon. They will see you for a follow up 2 weeks after your surgical date to make sure you are healing well and that your bite is stable.
04
Home Stretch
You are on your way to a beautiful smile and stable bite. We will see you 4 weeks after your surgery to start finalising your bite in the new position. You can expect to be in orthodontic treatment for another 6-8 months after this stage. Once your orthodontic treatment is complete, you'll receive retainers so that you can enjoy your smile forever!