Orthognathic surgery is a procedure that aims to correct jaw problems to improve oral health. Before surgery, it is necessary to prepare properly. During the surgical procedure, the necessary corrections will be made. Recovery after surgery is crucial for good long-term results. This surgery offers both aesthetic and functional benefits.
What is orthognathic surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is a surgical procedure performed to correct problems with the jaw and facial structure. This surgery can correct malocclusions, facial malformations and problems with the alignment of the jaw bones. Orthognathic surgery aims to improve both the function and aesthetics of the face.
To carry out this procedure, cuts are made in the jaw bones to reposition them properly. This allows the bite to be corrected, teeth to be aligned and the overall facial appearance to be improved. Orthognathic surgery can have a significant impact on patients' quality of life, improving chewing, breathing and stability of the masticatory apparatus.
In most cases, orthognathic surgery is performed in combination with orthodontic treatment to prevent possible complications and to achieve the best results. It is important to note that this procedure can only be performed by highly trained and specialised maxillofacial surgeons.
Orthognathic surgery and its relationship to oral health
Orthognathic surgery is a surgical procedure performed to correct problems in the jaw and its relationship to the rest of the facial structure. However, in addition to the aesthetic and functional benefits it can offer, orthognathic surgery is also directly related to oral health.
One of the main problems addressed by orthognathic surgery is malocclusion, i.e. irregularities in the position and fit of the upper and lower teeth. These dental malpositions can not only affect the appearance of the smile, but can also cause difficulties with chewing, speaking and breathing.
In addition, malocclusion can increase the risk of developing periodontal diseases, as poor alignment of the teeth makes proper oral hygiene difficult and favours the accumulation of bacterial plaque. Therefore, orthognathic surgery not only seeks to improve facial aesthetics, but also to correct these oral health problems and prevent possible complications.
It is important to note that orthognathic surgery is a multidisciplinary treatment, involving orthodontists, maxillofacial surgeons and other oral health specialists. Prior to surgery, a comprehensive study including X-rays, dental models and imaging tests is performed to obtain an accurate diagnosis and plan the procedure.
During surgery, adjustments are made to the bone structure of the jaw to improve its alignment and function. This may include repositioning the upper or lower jaw, correcting lateral displacements or modifying the position of the teeth. The ultimate goal is to achieve correct dental occlusion and proper facial harmony.
After surgery, it is essential to follow the instructions of the medical team and to maintain good oral hygiene to ensure proper recovery. Orthodontic sessions may also be required afterwards to make the final adjustments to the position of the teeth. In this way, orthognathic surgery will not only improve facial aesthetics, but also contribute to better oral health and overall quality of life.
Preparation for orthognathic surgery
Before undergoing orthognathic surgery, it is important to do extensive physical and emotional preparation. Below are the steps necessary to be ready for the procedure:
- Consultation with the orthognathic surgeon: The first step is to find a specialist in orthognathic surgery in Spain and schedule a consultation. During this visit, your current dental and jaw condition will be assessed, examinations and x-rays will be ordered, and your goals and expectations regarding surgery will be discussed.
- Preoperative tests: To determine your general health, you will undergo a series of tests including blood tests, panoramic x-rays, dental study models and possibly a facial CT scan. These tests allow the surgeon to plan the surgical procedure accordingly.
- Coordination with other specialists: Depending on your particular case, collaboration with other specialists, such as an orthodontist or an otolaryngologist, may be required. It is important that all professionals involved in your case are in constant communication to ensure the success of the procedure.
- Orthodontic therapy prior to orthognathic surgery: In many cases, orthodontic treatment is required prior to orthognathic surgery. This helps to properly align your teeth and prepare your mouth for the procedure. Your orthodontist will work closely with the orthognathic surgeon to coordinate treatments.
- Medication break: It is important to inform your surgeon of all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and supplements. Some medications may affect the surgery and will need to be adjusted or discontinued for a certain period of time before the procedure.
- Follow pre-operative instructions: Your surgeon will give you specific instructions about fasting before surgery, proper oral hygiene and other precautions to take before the procedure. It is important to follow them to the letter to minimise risks and ensure the success of the surgery.
Surgical procedure of orthognathic surgery
The surgical procedure of orthognathic surgery is a complex process that requires the participation of a multidisciplinary team of specialists in dentistry and maxillofacial surgery. The main stages of this procedure are detailed below:
- Evaluation and planning: Prior to surgery, a comprehensive patient assessment is performed, including imaging tests, study models and cephalometric analysis. With this information, the surgical procedure is planned individually for each patient.
- Anaesthesia: Before the surgery begins, general anaesthesia is administered to the patient to ensure comfort and avoid any discomfort or pain during the procedure.
- Incisions: Once the patient is under anaesthesia, the necessary incisions are made in the mouth to access the maxillary bones and jaw.
- Bone repositioning: The maxillary bones and jaw are then repositioned according to the previously established plan. This involves the use of fixations such as screws and plates to ensure correct alignment of the bones.
- Final adjustments: Once the bones have been repositioned, final adjustments are made to improve dental occlusion and obtain proper jaw function.
- Closing of incisions: Once the surgical procedure is completed, the incisions are closed, using sutures that will dissolve on their own over time.
- Recovery: After surgery, the patient is given the necessary recovery instructions, including care of the incisions, proper diet and regular medical follow-up.
It is important to keep in mind that each orthognathic surgery case is unique, and the procedure may vary depending on the patient's specific needs. It is essential to follow the recommendations of the medical team for the best results and a healthy jaw.
Recovery after orthognathic surgery
After undergoing orthognathic surgery, it is essential to follow the recovery process properly in order to obtain the best results. The following are recommendations for this stage:
- Adequate rest: It is essential to allow the body to rest and recover from surgery. It is recommended to maintain a good sleep routine and avoid strenuous physical activity for the first few weeks.
- Balanced diet: During recovery, a soft and easily digestible diet should be followed. It is advisable to eat liquid or crushed food to avoid excessive pressure on the jaw.
- Oral hygiene care: It is important to maintain good oral hygiene, but vigorous brushing that may cause discomfort in the operated area should be avoided. It is recommended to use alcohol-free mouthwash and follow the maxillofacial surgeon's instructions.
- Common symptoms: It is normal to experience swelling, discomfort and bruising of the face and jaw after surgery. These symptoms usually subside gradually over time, but the medication plan prescribed by the specialist must be followed.
- Medical follow-up: It is essential to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with the maxillofacial surgeon. During these visits, the recovery process will be evaluated and any necessary adjustments will be made.
The length of recovery may vary from patient to patient, but in general it is estimated that it can take several weeks or even months for the jaw to heal completely. It is important to be patient and follow all the instructions of the medical team in order to obtain the desired results.
Long-term results of orthognathic surgery
Orthognathic surgery, in addition to providing aesthetic and functional benefits, offers long-term results that improve the oral health and quality of life of those who undergo it.
One of the main long-term results of this surgery is the correction of dental malocclusions, which has a positive impact on chewing, pronunciation and digestion of food. By fixing jaw alignment problems, there is a substantial improvement in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together, promoting proper balance.
Another significant result is improved breathing and prevention of disorders such as sleep apnoea. Orthognathic surgery can help open up the airway, allowing better airflow and reducing snoring and sleep disruption caused by lack of oxygen.
In addition, correction of maxillofacial problems can have a positive impact on facial aesthetics, bringing harmony and balance to facial structures. By correcting the position of the jaw and maxillary bones, significant changes in facial appearance can be achieved, improving the smile and facial symmetry.
It is important to mention that the long-term results of orthognathic surgery vary depending on each case and on proper compliance with postoperative recommendations. It is essential to follow the medical indications, carry out the necessary check-ups and maintain proper oral hygiene to ensure proper recovery and maintain the results obtained.
