Orthognathic Surgery

When the disharmony between the position of the jaws is severe of either jaw (i.e prognathic lower jaw, receded lower jaw, asymmetry, etc), it may be necessary to surgically reposition the jaws to establish a correct bite and a more harmonious facial profile. Orthodontic treatment involves the use of braces to align, level and coordinate the teeth in each jaw followed by orthognathic surgery to reposition the jaw(s) so that the teeth fit together properly. The treatment is carried out in 3 phases.

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Pre-Surgical Phase

During this phase, braces are placed and teeth are aligned properly in each jaw, allowing crowding and malalignment of the teeth to be resolved. This phase of treatment varies from 12 to 24 months, depending on the goals determined by Dr. Kostas and the maxillofacial surgeon. During the presurgical orthodontic phase, periodic study models, photos and x-rays are taken to evaluate the presurgical alignment.

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Surgical Phase

The maxillofacial surgeon takes appropriate records prior to surgery and reviews the plan with you. The surgery is perfomed under general anesthetic as an inpatient or outpatient procedure (hospital stay is usually 1-2 days depending on the type of surgery required). Titanium plates and screws are used routinely to stabilize the bone segments in place. Patients are usually able to resume their normal routines two to three weeks after surgery. Any restrictions in physical activity and diet are reviewed with you at the time of surgery. Patients return to the orthodontist 3-4 weeks after the surgery to resume the post-surgical phase of orthodontic treatment.

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Post-Surgical Phase

This phase lasts about six months. During this phase of treatment, the patient's bite is fine-tuned for an optimal result. Adaptation of muscle and teeth to the new alignment occurs during this phase. Patients will also be followed by the maxillofacial surgeon.

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Corrective Jaw Surgery is an elective procedure and only you will decide if you wish to have jaw surgery in combination with your orthodontic treatment to optimise your smile and facial esthetics. If you decide not to proceed with this treatment option, other alternative options will be discussed with you. Dr Kostas collaborates only with experienced maxillofacial surgeons to perform combined orthodontic surgical treatments of patients with severe dentofacial deformities. 

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The following videos show four common types of orthognathic procedures and are intended for educational purposes only.

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