Orthognathic surgery is a corrective jaw surgery. It realigns the upper and lower jaw to improve bite, facial appearance, and oral health.
People with severe underbites, overbites, or jaw misalignment that cannot be corrected with braces alone may benefit from orthognathic surgery.
The complexity of each situation determines the length of the surgery, which usually lasts one to five hours.
While discomfort is expected after any surgery, modern techniques and pain management options help minimize postoperative pain.
Most incisions for orthognathic surgery are made inside the mouth, minimizing visible scarring.
Recovery time varies depending on the individual, but it typically takes several weeks to recover fully.
In the initial weeks following surgery, a liquid or soft diet is usually advised. Solid foods can be progressively added back in as healing advances.