Different Types of Jaw Surgery Explained
Jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, encompasses various procedures aimed at correcting jaw irregularities. Here’s a detailed look at the different types of jaw surgery:

Maxillary Osteotomy (Upper Jaw Surgery)
Purpose:

Corrects upper jaw issues such as overbite, crossbite, and open bite.
Addresses conditions like a receding upper jaw, protruding upper jaw, or facial asymmetry.
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Procedure:

The surgeon makes an incision in the gums above the upper teeth.
The upper jaw (maxilla) is then separated from the rest of the face and moved into the desired position.
Plates and screws secure the jaw in its new position.
Recovery:

Initial swelling and discomfort.
Soft or liquid diet for several weeks.
Full recovery in a few months.
Mandibular Osteotomy (Lower Jaw Surgery)
Purpose:

Corrects lower jaw issues such as underbite, overbite, or open bite.
Can also address a receding or protruding lower jaw.
Procedure:

An incision is made inside the mouth, on the lower jaw.
The lower jaw (mandible) is cut and repositioned.
Plates and screws are used to hold the jaw in its new position.
Recovery:

Similar to maxillary osteotomy, with initial swelling and discomfort.
A soft or liquid diet is necessary for several weeks.
Full recovery in a few months.
Genioplasty (Chin Surgery)
Purpose:

Enhances chin position and facial balance.
Often performed in conjunction with other jaw surgeries.
Procedure:

An incision is made inside the lower lip.
The chin bone is cut and moved forward or backward, or reshaped as needed.
Plates and screws are used to secure the new position.
Recovery:

Similar to other jaw surgeries, with swelling and a soft diet initially.
Full recovery typically takes a few months.
Bimaxillary Osteotomy (Double Jaw Surgery)
Purpose:

Simultaneous correction of both upper and lower jaw issues.
Addresses complex jaw misalignments and severe facial asymmetry.
Procedure:

Combines maxillary osteotomy and mandibular osteotomy.
Both jaws are repositioned to achieve proper alignment and balance.
Recovery:

More extensive recovery due to the involvement of both jaws.
Requires a longer period of soft or liquid diet.
Full recovery may take longer compared to single jaw surgeries.
Segmental Osteotomy
Purpose:

Corrects specific sections of the jaw rather than the entire jaw.
Used for localized issues such as gaps between teeth or segments of the jawbone that need repositioning.
Procedure:

Incisions are made to access the specific section of the jawbone.
The segment is cut, repositioned, and secured with plates and screws.
Recovery:

Depending on the extent of the surgery, recovery can vary.
Soft or liquid diet and similar care instructions as other jaw surgeries.
Considerations and Preparation
Orthodontic Treatment:

Braces are often required before and after surgery to properly align the teeth.
Pre-Surgical Planning:

Detailed imaging (X-rays, CT scans) to plan the exact movements and positions of the jaw.
Consultation:

Discuss potential risks, benefits, and recovery expectations with the surgeon.
Post-Surgical Care
Pain Management: Medications to manage pain and discomfort.
Diet: Adhering to a soft or liquid diet to avoid stressing the jaw.
Oral Hygiene: Special care to maintain oral hygiene and prevent infection.
Follow-Up: Regular follow-up visits to monitor healing and progress.
Understanding the different types of jaw surgery and their purposes can help patients and their healthcare providers make informed decisions about the best course of treatment for achieving optimal functional and aesthetic results.