Orthognathic Surgery

Orthognathic Surgery (Ortho-surgery)

Sometimes, orthodontic treatment alone is not enough to correct severe dental or jaw irregularities. In such cases, a combination of orthodontics and jaw surgery is required — a procedure known as orthognathic surgery or ortho-surgery. This advanced technique is designed primarily for adults who suffer from significant skeletal discrepancies in the jaw and facial structure.

Orthognathic surgery aims to correct functional and aesthetic problems by aligning the upper and lower jaws properly, improving chewing, speaking, breathing, and overall facial harmony.

What sets Dr. Jahangirnia apart in this field is not only his precision, extensive experience, and advanced surgical skills, but also his use of patient-specific digital guides. These guides are designed individually for each patient based on their exact jaw position and dental anatomy. By using this digital technology before surgery, the procedure achieves millimeter-level accuracy, ensuring the jaws are positioned in the most ideal and anatomically correct location. This level of precision significantly enhances both the functional outcome and the aesthetic result.

When Is Ortho-surgery Needed?

You may be a candidate for orthognathic surgery if you experience:

• A protruding lower jaw (mandibular prognathism)
• A protruding upper jaw (maxillary prognathism)
• Both jaws positioned forward beyond normal alignment
• A recessed jaw or underdeveloped chin
• Asymmetry or unevenness between the two sides of the face
• Gummy smile (excessive gum display while smiling)
• Breathing issues during sleep due to jaw misalignment
• Congenital deformities or trauma-related facial irregularities

Goals of Orthognathic Surgery

The primary goals of this surgery are to:

• Correct skeletal and dental deformities.
• Enhance facial balance and aesthetics.
• Improve chewing, speech, and breathing.
• Achieve proper bite alignment.
• Restore self-confidence through a more harmonious facial appearance.

Steps of Orthognathic Surgery

1. Diagnosis and Initial Assessment

The process begins with detailed examinations, including X-rays, 3D scans, and dental impressions, to evaluate the jaw structure and bite relationship.

2. Treatment Planning

The orthodontist and oral & maxillofacial surgeon collaborate to design a precise treatment plan. The goal is to align teeth and jaws harmoniously before surgery.

3. Orthodontic Phase (Pre-surgical Braces)

Before surgery, patients typically undergo orthodontic treatment (braces) for 18–24 months. This step ensures that teeth are properly aligned so the jaws can fit together correctly after surgery.
In some cases, surgery may be performed without orthodontics if the dental alignment already meets the required conditions.

4. Surgical Phase

After completing the orthodontic stage, jaw surgery is performed under general anesthesia.

• The surgeon makes incisions inside the mouth (leaving no visible scars).
• Depending on the patient’s condition, the upper, lower, or both jaws are repositioned using advanced bone-cutting techniques (osteotomy).
• Titanium plates and screws are used to stabilize the bones in their new position.
• Absorbable sutures are used, and the surgery typically lasts several hours.

5. Post-surgical Orthodontics

After recovery, a final stage of orthodontic treatment is performed to fine-tune the bite and ensure long-term stability.

Advantages of Orthognathic Surgery

• Corrects severe jaw deformities that cannot be treated with braces alone.
• Improves chewing, speech, and breathing functions.
• Significantly enhances facial symmetry and appearance.
• Helps achieve a balanced, natural smile and better self-esteem.
• Provides long-lasting, permanent results.

Potential Disadvantages

• High cost due to the involvement of both orthodontic and surgical specialists.
• Lengthy treatment process, often lasting several years (braces + surgery + recovery).
• Minor surgical risks such as bleeding, swelling, temporary numbness, or infection.

Recovery and Aftercare

• Most patients need a few weeks to recover and adapt to jaw movement.
• A soft or liquid diet is recommended for the first few weeks.
• Swelling and discomfort can be managed with cold compresses and prescribed medication.
• Regular follow-ups with your surgeon and orthodontist are essential.

Expertise You Can Trust

Dr. Alireza Jahangirnia, a senior oral and maxillofacial surgeon with years of experience in orthognathic and facial aesthetic surgeries, has successfully treated numerous patients with complex jaw and facial deformities. His precise techniques and personalized care ensure both functional correction and natural facial balance.

Conclusion

Ortho-surgery (Orthognathic surgery) is a combined approach involving jaw surgery and orthodontic treatment, designed to correct severe skeletal and dental irregularities.
Although it requires time, expertise, and patience, the results — improved facial symmetry, better function, and a confident smile — are truly transformative.

If you experience jaw misalignment, difficulty chewing, or facial imbalance, consulting an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon is the best first step toward achieving a healthy, natural, and harmonious smile.