What it involves
Corrective jaw surgery, also called orthognathic surgery, repositions one or both jaws so that the teeth meet properly and the face is in better balance. It is usually performed in partnership with an orthodontist, who aligns the teeth before and after surgery.
Dr. Nolan uses virtual surgical planning to map each movement in three dimensions before the day of surgery. The procedure is performed through incisions inside the mouth, so there are generally no visible facial scars.
Who it's for
- Bite problems that braces alone cannot correct, such as an underbite, overbite, or open bite
- Difficulty chewing, biting, or speaking
- Facial asymmetry or imbalance related to jaw position
- Obstructive sleep apnea in selected patients, and some jaw-related joint or facial pain
Recovery basics
- Most patients spend one or two nights in the hospital after surgery.
- Swelling peaks within the first few days and then gradually improves over several weeks.
- A liquid, then soft, diet is followed for about six weeks as the jaw heals.
- Many patients return to school or desk work in two to three weeks, with orthodontic finishing continuing afterward.
Every recovery is individual. You'll receive written instructions specific to your procedure, and our team is always available to answer questions while you heal.