Orthognathic surgery for facial harmony is a surgical approach aimed at correcting skeletal jaw irregularities and misalignments. The goal of this procedure is to reposition the jaw and teeth, permanently eliminating facial asymmetry and functional issues. Orthognathic surgery not only addresses aesthetic concerns but also improves essential functions like chewing, speaking, and breathing. Since every patient’s situation is different, this treatment is specifically tailored to each individual, with the treatment process designed based on their unique needs.
What is Orthognathic Surgery for Facial Harmony?
Orthognathic surgery refers to surgical interventions aimed at correcting deformities and misalignments in the face and jaw skeleton. When the upper and lower jaws are not in their correct anatomical positions, it can lead to facial asymmetry and functional issues. These problems can be addressed with orthodontic treatment, but when orthodontics alone are insufficient, surgery becomes necessary. The aim of orthognathic surgery is to reposition the jawbones and teeth to improve both aesthetic and functional outcomes.
When is Orthognathic Surgery for Facial Harmony Applied?
Orthognathic surgery is generally used to correct jaw and facial skeleton misalignments. The main conditions where this procedure is needed include:
Jaw Asymmetry
When there is asymmetry between the upper and lower jaw, such as one jaw being ahead or behind, or shifted sideways.
Developmental Disorders
Disorders in the development of the jaw skeleton can cause facial disharmony and functional problems, which require surgical correction.
Bite Issues
Conditions like open bite, underbite, and deep bite are some of the dental alignment problems that may require surgical intervention when orthodontics cannot resolve them.
Facial Asymmetry
Misalignments in the jaw can cause facial asymmetry, which can be addressed through orthognathic surgery.
Trauma
Facial injuries that cause fractures or deformities in the jaw require orthognathic surgery for repair.
Aesthetic Concerns About Orthognathic Surgery for Facial Harmony?
Misalignment of the jawbones can cause aesthetic concerns, which can be corrected with this procedure.
Orthognathic Surgery Techniques for Facial Harmony
Orthognathic surgery consists of various procedures tailored to the patient’s needs. The most commonly used techniques include:
Le Fort Osteotomy
This is a procedure for the upper jaw (maxilla). It is used when the upper jaw is positioned too far back, forward, or to the side. The upper jaw is repositioned using specialized techniques and then stabilized.
Sagittal Split Osteotomy
This procedure addresses issues with the lower jaw. It involves cutting the mandible to correct problems such as the jaw being too far forward or backward. The jaw is repositioned and secured with titanium plates and screws.
Genioplasty
Also known as chin surgery, this procedure is performed when the chin is too large, small, or asymmetrical. It addresses aesthetic concerns related to the shape and size of the chin.
Other Procedures
Techniques such as bilateral maxillary osteotomy, mandibular osteotomy, and vertical ramus osteotomy are also used in orthognathic surgery to correct facial and jaw misalignments.
How is Orthognathic Surgery for Facial Harmony Performed?
Orthognathic surgery requires a high level of expertise and is performed by experienced specialists. The general steps of the procedure are as follows:
- Patient Evaluation: The first step is determining if the patient is an appropriate candidate for surgery. This is done using imaging techniques like CT scans.
- Surgical Planning: Detailed planning is done using 3D modeling to determine where the jawbones will be cut and how they will be repositioned.
- General Anesthesia: The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia.
- Surgical Procedure: Incisions are made inside the mouth to access the jawbones. The planned corrections are carried out, and the jawbones are repositioned according to the model.
- Stabilization: The repositioned bones are secured using biocompatible materials like titanium screws and plates.
- Recovery Process: After surgery, recovery begins, and orthodontic treatment may continue for several months to ensure the best results.
Risks of Orthognathic Surgery
Like any surgical procedure, orthognathic surgery carries certain risks. These risks include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Swelling and bruising
- Misalignment of teeth
- Failure to meet aesthetic expectations
- Unsuccessful results
- Need for revision surgery
These risks can be minimized with careful management by an experienced surgeon.
Signs of a Failed Jaw Surgery
Failed jaw surgery can lead to several symptoms, including:
- Pain around the jaw joint, ears, or other parts of the face, which worsens when speaking or eating.
- Persistent swelling and bruising in the surgery area.
- Problems with swallowing, speaking, and chewing.
- Aesthetic concerns or unsatisfactory cosmetic results.
- Nerve damage symptoms, such as tingling or numbness.
- Bite issues, where the teeth do not align properly.
These symptoms may indicate that the surgery was unsuccessful, and a follow-up consultation with the surgeon is necessary.
Costs of Orthognathic Surgery for Facial Harmony
The cost of orthognathic surgery can vary depending on the procedure performed, the experience of the surgeon, the clinic’s pricing policies, and the materials used (such as implants). It is difficult to provide an exact cost without further details. For more accurate pricing and information, it’s best to consult with a specialized surgeon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthognathic Surgery
Orthognathic surgery for facial harmony offers significant aesthetic and functional improvements. However, it requires a high level of expertise and careful evaluation before and after the procedure, like Celal Candirli. With proper planning and a skilled surgeon, successful outcomes can be achieved, enhancing both the appearance and function of the jaw and face.
Is Orthognathic Surgery Aesthetic?
The primary goal of orthognathic surgery is to address functional issues, but it also significantly improves aesthetic appearance by correcting jaw misalignments.
How Long Does Orthognathic Surgery Take?
The duration of the surgery depends on the complexity of the procedure, but typically it lasts around 3-4 hours.
What is the Recovery Time After Orthognathic Surgery?
Recovery typically takes 3-6 months, but the final results may not be visible until the entire healing process is complete.
