Orthognathic Surgery (Jaw Surgery)

Learn How to Choose an Expert Surgeon for Your Orthognathic Surgery (Jaw Surgery)

Jaw misalignment may cause a number of problems, both functional and cosmetic. In the hands of an experienced surgeon, orthognathic surgery (jaw surgery) can address these issues in a customized manner, improving your quality of life. 


Learn what jaw surgery may entail, why patients seek it, and how to choose a surgeon below.

What is orthognathic surgery?

Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, is a procedure performed to correct a wide range of skeletal and dental irregularities in the jaw bones and the teeth. This surgery can address issues related to chewing, speaking, and breathing, and it can also enhance facial aesthetics. 

While an oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs the operation, your orthodontist plays a crucial role in preoperative planning and postoperative care, working to make sure that teeth alignment complements your newly positioned jaws.


The specific surgical steps vary depending on the type of correction needed, but the procedure generally involves surgical manipulation and realignment of the jaw bones. Screws, wires, or plates may be used to secure the new position of the jaws. There are three main types of jaw surgery:


  • Maxillary osteotomy, or surgery of the upper jaw
  • Mandibular osteotomy, or surgery of the lower jaw
  • Genioplasty, or chin surgery


Jawline surgery typically takes about two to five hours and is performed under general anesthesia for your comfort and safety. Recovery may last 6 to 12 weeks.

Conditions that jaw surgery treats

Jaw surgery can address a wide range of problems, including but not limited to:


  • Jaw growth anomalies
  • Malocclusion (misaligned bite)
  • Overbite or underbite
  • Misalignment of the jaw
  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
  • Prognathism (protruding upper or lower jaw)
  • Retrognathism (recessed jaw)
  • Facial asymmetry due to uneven jaw growth
  • Sleep apnea related to jaw structure
  • Congenital defects such as cleft palate
  • Trauma or injuries to the jaw

Benefits of orthognathic surgery

Depending on your individual needs, benefits of jaw surgery may include improved ability to chew and speak, enhanced facial balance and appearance, relief from jaw pain and discomfort, and better oral health.

Good Candidates

The best way to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for orthognathic surgery is to consult with both an orthodontist and a surgeon who has extensive experience in corrective jaw surgery. They can assess your condition, discuss your goals and concerns, and educate you throughout the decision-making process.



Determining eligibility for this procedure involves a comprehensive evaluation by your surgeon and your orthodontist. Both physicians must examine your jaw alignment, the position of your teeth, and your overall oral health. Imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans might be necessary for a detailed assessment.


Candidates for orthognathic surgery typically have significant jaw misalignment or malocclusion that cannot be corrected through orthodontics alone. Factors such as overall health, age, and your expectations for the outcome of surgery also influence whether or not you are a good candidate.

Pre-surgery instructions

Preparation for surgery involves a series of appointments with your healthcare provider and orthodontist. Braces may be used for a period of time before surgery in order to align the teeth, if needed. Closer to your surgery date, specific instructions will be given about dietary restrictions, certain medications to avoid, and guidelines for optimal oral hygiene.

What to expect during jaw surgery recovery

Jaw surgery recovery requires some dedication to allow your body to heal. Generally speaking, recovery takes about 6-12 weeks.

Pain and swelling are normal after surgery; you will be prescribed pain medication to manage your discomfort, and your surgeon will schedule follow-up visits to monitor your healing progress. You will likely need to follow a liquid or soft food diet for up to 6 weeks after surgery. Temporary changes in facial sensation, swelling, and bruising are normal. It takes most patients between 1-3 weeks before their surgeon clears them to return to work, although it may be longer if your job is strenuous.



Expect detailed instructions from your surgeon outlining:


  • Medications for pain
  • Restrictions around eating
  • Oral hygiene practices
  • How long to avoid exercise or strenuous activity


It is also very important to avoid tobacco or nicotine products for a period of time before and after surgery to promote a healthy healing process.

Risks and potential complications

While orthognathic surgery is generally safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries potential risks, including:



  • Need for a second surgery
  • Infection
  • Nerve injury
  • Jaw movement issues
  • Adverse reactions to anesthesia


Ask your surgeon to discuss the risks with you in detail before the procedure so that you are fully informed. They should also talk to you about surgical techniques and recovery protocols they follow to help minimize complications.

Alternative Procedures

Orthognathic surgery may not be necessary if the concerns you wish to treat are solely cosmetic, as changes in the jaw’s appearance are possible with either dermal filler or chin augmentation surgery: 


  • Dermal filler, a temporary solution, can be injected into the chin and/or jawline to balance features and promote symmetry or a stronger chin in your profile.
  • A chin implant can balance facial features and augment the chin with a synthetic implant placed around the chin bone.
  • Sliding genioplasty (osseous genioplasty) surgically enhances the chin as desired by surgically cutting and sliding the chin bone.


For mild issues with the bite and jaw, some patients may be able to consult with their orthodontist to adjust their bite with braces or other less invasive treatments.

Cost

The cost of jawline surgery can vary significantly depending on various factors such as your geographic location, the surgeon’s expertise, and the complexity of the procedure required. Most health insurance plans do not cover cosmetic jawline surgery, but they may cover a portion or all of the cost if the procedure is performed to correct a medical problem, such as a congenital defect or trauma. Additionally, many surgeons offer financing options so that you can pay in monthly installments.

Why choose a board-certified facial cosmetic surgeon for your jaw surgery?

Jaw surgery is incredibly complex, so choosing a facial cosmetic surgeon is a critical first step in the process. Look for an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon who holds additional board certification in facial cosmetic surgery from the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery. Surgeons who are ABFCS-certified not only have the skills to provide you with a safe outcome, but also the aesthetic expertise to help you achieve a cosmetically-sound jawline appearance