Orthognathic surgery

Name: Ipswich Orthodontics
Telephone: 07 3812 0865

Sometimes braces alone are unable to achieve the smile you’re looking for. If you need to adjust the position and relation of your jaw bones, orthognathic surgery may help you achieve the best aesthetic and functional result.

What is orthognathic surgery?

Orthognathic surgery, also known as jaw surgery, is performed by a maxillofacial surgeon to correct abnormalities of the facial bones, jaws, and teeth. Working in conjunction with braces, orthognathic surgery can improve your overall appearance and facial profile.

Who needs orthognathic surgery?

If you have mismatched jaws, and are experiencing issues with chewing, speaking, sleeping, or confidence because of it, then orthognathic surgery may be a good option for you. This is especially true if you are an adult whose jaws have stopped growing.

When you come for your consultation with Dr Grant Hamilton-Ritchie, he will assess your smile to see if you would benefit most from orthognathic surgery, or if your misalignment can be treated by braces or aligners.

How does orthognathic surgery work?

Before you undergo surgery, you will need to start treatment with braces. As your teeth begin to move, you may think your bite is getting worse instead of better, but once your jaws have been placed into correct alignment through surgery, your teeth will fit in the proper positions.

You will receive general anaesthesia for your surgery and, depending on the severity of the procedure, you may need to spend 1 to 4 days in the hospital so your healthcare providers can monitor your recovery.

How long is the recovery from orthognathic surgery?

Most patients fully recover from surgery within 4-8 weeks, and you should be able to return to work or school within two weeks. After you have fully recovered, Dr Hamilton-Ritchie will fine-tune your bite with braces so you can achieve a flawless smile.