Corrective Jaw Surgery in Nashville TN
Understanding Orthognathic Surgery
At Hermitage Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Drs. Yazbak and Mills are highly skilled at orthognathic or corrective jaw surgery. This procedure corrects irregularities of the jaw and facial structure. It involves repositioning the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both to improve functionality and aesthetics.
Why Choose Orthognathic Surgery?
If you are experiencing issues such as difficulty chewing or speaking, chronic jaw pain, sleep apnea, or an imbalanced facial appearance, orthognathic surgery may be the solution.
Some consider orthognathic surgery to improve their appearance by improving facial symmetry or sculpting their jawline. However, most patients have orthognathic surgery because it is medically necessary when the set of the jawline interferes with jaw function. In either situation, corrective jaw surgery improves appearance and quality of life.
Common Reasons to Get Corrective Jaw Surgery
- Improper Bite and Jaw Misalignment: An improperly aligned bite can interfere with eating and speaking comfortably and lead to uneven teeth wear. It can also be uncomfortable.
- Chronic Jaw Pain: If chronic jaw pain affects your quality of life, our corrective jaw surgery can provide long-lasting relief. By addressing the underlying causes of your pain, we can help restore comfort and functionality to your jaw.
- Jaw Tumors or Cysts: Jaw tumors and cysts require specialized attention. Our team has extensive experience surgically removing these growths while preserving your health and appearance. When needed, we work closely with oncologists and other specialists to ensure the highest level of care.
- Jaw Growth Discrepancies: Gradual jaw growth discrepancies can lead to functional and aesthetic concerns. Our corrective jaw surgery techniques ensure balanced growth, promoting proper development and enhancing facial symmetry.
- Traumatic Injuries or Birth Defects: Trauma and congenital disabilities can profoundly impact your jaw structure. Fractured or dislocated facial bones require precision corrective jaw surgery to restore both function and aesthetics. Our compassionate surgeons help restore your jaw’s functionality and improve your overall well-being.
The Procedure: How it Works
Before any treatment begins, a consultation is needed to perform a complete examination with X-rays. During the pre-treatment consultation process, feel free to ask any questions regarding your treatment. When you are fully informed about the aspects of your care, you and your dental team, along with Dr. Yazbak or Dr. Mills, can decide whether to proceed with treatment together.
During orthognathic surgery, we carefully plan and perform the necessary adjustments to your jaw structure. This may involve cutting and repositioning the bones or using plates and screws to secure them in their new position. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout. Recovery can be lengthy, but patients generally discover the process is less painful than they feared.
Our team will guide you through every step of the process, from initial consultation to post-operative care. We prioritize your safety and satisfaction throughout your orthognathic surgery journey.
Signs You May Need Corrective Jaw Surgery
If you experience any of the symptoms listed below, your dentist or orthodontist may refer you to our office to explore whether orthognathic surgery can help.
- Jaw pain
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing.
- Chronic jaw pain
- Teeth clenching or grinding (Bruxism)
- TMJ Disorder
- Protruding jaw
- Breathing difficulties
- Traumatic jaw or facial injury
- Clicking or locking of the jaw
At Hermitage Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we evaluate each patient individually and review all phases of corrective jaw surgery, including post-operative care and recovery.
Technology & Orthognathic Surgery
Drs. Yazbak and Mills use modern computer-aided techniques and three-dimensional models to show you exactly how your surgery will be approached. Using comprehensive facial X-rays and computer video imaging, we can show you how your bite will be improved and even give you an idea of how you’ll look after surgery. This helps you understand the surgical process and the extent of the proposed treatment.
If you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, Drs. Yazbak or Mills will work closely with your dentist and orthodontist during your treatment. The surgery can move your teeth and jaws into a new position, resulting in a more attractive, functional, and healthy dental-facial relationship.
What to Expect Following Corrective Jaw Surgery
Being apprehensive about what to expect after having orthognathic surgery is normal. We strive at every phase of your treatment to minimize pain and ensure you understand the recovery process. Keep in mind that while recovery may take some time, the results are transformative. We will see you one week after surgery to evaluate your healing and record your progress. If you have any concerns, we will address them at this time.
During the first week, you will experience bruising and swelling. The swelling usually peaks between 3-5 days. Bruising will slowly fade but may change color and spread to the neck or chest. The bruising should be gone within two weeks.
Because there are an incredible number of nerves in the face and jaw, some of these may be temporarily affected following corrective jaw surgery. You may feel numb in your face for several weeks as the nerves repair themselves.
Pain following surgery can usually be alleviated with over-the-counter or prescribed pain relievers and, when appropriate, ice packs. We will provide detailed at-home instructions for your comfort and safety. Please follow these closely to minimize discomfort and promote faster healing.
Orthognathic surgery requires patients to consume a liquid diet for the first week. This may include smoothies, Jello, foods processed in a blender, and non-acidic juices. There are many delicious options for a liquid diet on the Internet. Our office staff can answer your questions if you are unsure whether a food or beverage is appropriate. We can guide you as you transition from a liquid to a soft diet and return to normal eating.
Most patients can return to work or school one to three weeks following corrective jaw surgery. The procedure’s complexity, overall health, and other factors are considered before determining when you are ready to return to work.
The initial recovery after corrective jaw surgery usually takes about six weeks, but total healing of the jawbone may take anywhere from 9-12 months.
If your dentist or orthodontist has suggested corrective jaw surgery, please get in touch with our office at Hermitage Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Phone Number (615) 883-0067 to schedule an initial consultation. We will work closely with your dental care team to ensure a seamless treatment plan with beautiful, healthy results.
Exceptional Oral Surgery Care at Hermitage Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
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What to Expect
- Corrective jaw surgery is a significant intervention requiring many months of preparation.
- The surgery is performed in the hospital and can last between two to eight hours.
- Hospital stays of one to three days are normal.
- Braces are maintained during surgery and may need to be removed six to twelve months after surgery.
- The greatest impact of orthognathic surgery is the recovery phase.
- Patients typically may be off work/school from two weeks to one month after surgery.
- Return to normal chewing function may take 2 months and full function may take one year.
- Our goal is to ensure you are well taken care of during and after surgery.
- Weekly appointments are required for up to two months after surgery.