FACIAL DEFORMITY AND ORTHOGNATHIC (JAW) SURGERY
Orthognathic surgery corrects the position of the jaws.
The Face, Airway and Bite are the three key factors that determine how and why jaw surgery may be indicated.
In general, surgery is undertaken at the same time as orthodontic treatment (braces) to correct the position of the teeth.
Orthognathic surgery not only corrects the alignment of the jaws, but also ensures that the teeth meet correctly.
This can improve the function of the jaw, a patient’s dental health, the airway and a person’s facial appearance.
Due to the complexity of this treatment, only qualified specialist orthodontists should be undertaking orthodontics (braces) for jaw surgery.
When is orthognathic surgery needed?
- When there is jaw discrepancy, eg large or small lower jaw, or small upper jaw
- The patient has a ‘long face’ which may present with a gummy smile
- The patient has a ‘short face’ which may present with no teeth showing or with a deep bite which may cause trauma to the gums and teeth
- The patient has an asymmetrical face and jaw
- The patient has an ‘open bite’ where the front teeth of the upper and lower jaws don’t meet.
- The patient’s chin is too small, too large or asymmetric (Genioplasty)
- Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (Maxillo-Mandibular Advancement) for the management of severe airway collapse and snoring
- Post traumatic facial deformity after an injury to the bones of the face.
The treatment and planning for Orthognathic Surgery is usually carried out using a multidisciplinary approach with an Orthodontist and your general dentist.
Dr Madden employs the most contemporary 3D computer aided planning and 3D photography to ensure the most accurate and stable results.
Orthognathic surgery may involve surgery on either the top jaw, lower jaw, chin or a combination of both jaws.
Most cases start with the orthodontic treatment (pre-surgical orthodontics) followed by surgery 12-18 months later with the braces still on the teeth.
Surgery is carried out under general anaesthetic in a major private hospital setting and requires a hospital stay of 1-3 nights.
In general, 3-6 months of Orthodontics is required after jaw surgery to help fine tune the final position of the teeth and bite.
Dr Madden works closely with a number of Sydney’s leading Specialist orthodontists and orthodontic practices to provide corrective jaw surgery.
Should you wish to enquire about jaw surgery please ask your orthodontist, dentist or family doctor to refer you for a consultation.
If you don’t have an orthodontist, Dr Madden would be happy to recommend one in your area.