Orthognathic Surgery
Orthognathic surgery fully corrects dental occlusion, improves facial balance and proportion and addresses functional problems related to chewing, speech and breathing.
Case Examples
Orthognathic surgery: what problems does it solve?
Watch the videos below to learn more about the conditions addressed by orthognathic surgery and the procedures used to treat them.
What Is Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery — also known as corrective jaw surgery — is the branch of oral and maxillofacial surgery concerned with the correction of a wide spectrum of deformities and anomalies of the facial skeleton and dentition.
When Is Orthognathic Surgery Necessary?
The conditions and skeletal discrepancies that may require surgical correction of the jaws include:
- Excess growth of the lower face (a large or prominent mandible, prognathism) with a reverse bite — Class III malocclusion;
- Underdevelopment of the mandible (mandibular hypoplasia), with a receding chin and a significant gap between the upper and lower incisors — Class II malocclusion;
- Dentofacial asymmetries of varying severity, involving deviation of the mandible, chin and/or upper jaw;
- Occlusal discrepancies that cannot be corrected by orthodontic treatment alone, such as deep bite (where the upper teeth excessively overlap the lower teeth) and open bite (where a gap exists between the upper and lower incisors, with contact only at the level of the molars).
These procedures are suitable for patients who are not satisfied with their bite, facial balance or proportions. In some individuals, the mandible and maxilla develop in an uncoordinated manner.
It is commonly assumed that misaligned teeth can be corrected solely by an orthodontist. However, while orthodontic treatment can reposition the teeth, it cannot alter the position or dimensions of the underlying bones.
Orthognathic surgery addresses the facial bones directly — modifying both the aesthetics of the face and the position of the jaws, and consequently the teeth.
Close collaboration between the orthodontist and the oral and maxillofacial surgeon is always essential. Pre-operative orthodontic treatment is invariably required and may last, depending on the case, from one to two years.
How Is Orthognathic Surgery Performed?
All orthognathic procedures are performed via an intraoral approach — that is, entirely through the mouth, leaving no visible external scars on the face. Modern surgical fixation techniques, using titanium plates and screws, allow for a rapid return to function.
The long-term outcomes of orthognathic surgery can have a profound and positive impact on many aspects of a patient’s life, both functional and aesthetic.
Would you like more information?
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to the most common questions about when to seek specialist advice, what orthognathic surgery involves, and what treatment options are available.
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Orthognathic jaw surgery is a planned surgical procedure designed to correct a skeletal discrepancy affecting the relationship between the mandible and maxilla, and consequently the dental occlusion.
Prior to surgery, a full maxillofacial assessment and case analysis are carried out, including clinical documentation and any relevant investigations, often in collaboration with the orthodontist, to define a precise surgical plan.
In the operating theatre, the jaw is repositioned according to the planned correction (advancement, setback or repositioning) and stabilised using dedicated fixation systems.Following surgery, you will receive clear guidance on diet, oral hygiene and the gradual restoration of function, with a follow-up programme tailored to your individual needs.
Other surgical areas
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Briefly describe the concern for which you would like to seek a specialist opinion. Mr Stea’s secretary will be in touch promptly and, where appropriate, will arrange an appointment at the location most convenient for you.