Corrective Jaw Surgery in Texas

At Valley OMS, we see many patients who complain about their jaws being too big or too small, asymmetric, or their teeth not fitting properly. These problems can sometimes be related. While issues of misaligned teeth may be corrected through orthodontics, problems of  jaw under or overgrowth and/or asymmetries may require corrective surgery. This surgery not only improves the facial appearance but also ensures the teeth fit together the way they are supposed to.

Our oral surgeons assist patients throughout Texas, not only in diagnosing jaw problems but in performing corrective surgery. We invite you to learn more about our experience in corrective jaw surgery.

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Do I Need Corrective Jaw Surgery?

Typically, the best patients for corrective jaw surgery are those who do not have proper bites or who experience discomfort due to their jaws not fitting together the way they are supposed to. Some additional symptoms to be aware of include:

• Difficulty chewing, biting, or swallowing
• Speech problems
• Persistent jaw pain
• Chronic pain associated with TMJ
• Open bite
• Protruding jaw
• Receding jaw
• Difficulty breathing
• Prominent chin
• Weak chin
• Gummy smile
• Weak smile

Any one of these symptoms may be present either at birth or after growth is completed following puberty. Alternatively, these symptoms may result from traumatic facial injuries.

When you join us at Valley OMS, we will start with a full evaluation and consultation. The point of this consultation is to make certain that you are qualified for a safe and successful corrective jaw surgery and verify that your symptoms require orthognathic intervention. During the consultation, you can anticipate a physical examination of your teeth and jaw, some questions about your medical history, and a set of X-rays. Your doctor will also answer any questions you may have about the surgical procedure.

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What to Expect from Corrective Jaw Surgery

The specifics of your procedure can vary according to the nature and the extent of your jaw deformity. However, most patients can anticipate that their surgery will last somewhere between two and four hours.

Your comfort is a top priority, and for this reason, we will always provide full anesthesia options, ensuring a pain-free procedure, but almost all of these surgeries are done under general anesthesia.

Our doctors will perform the surgery inside your mouth whenever possible; in other words, all incisions will be made inside the mouth so that there is no visible external scarring. Your procedure may also involve jaw bones being cut and moved into a new place, where they may be secured with plates, screws, or wires. In some instances, additional bone tissue called a bone graft is needed.

Following your corrective jaw surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room to monitor your condition. Your surgery may be considered an outpatient procedure or may require an overnight stay at the hospital.

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Meet Your Corrective Jaw Surgeons

At Valley OMS, we boast a team of skilled oral surgeons who share a commitment to patient comfort, safety, and outcomes. We have a proven track record performing orthognathic surgery for patients throughout Texas, assisting them in regaining a proper bite and full jaw functionality. To get to know our doctors better, we encourage you to check out their individual bios.

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Recovery from Corrective Jaw Surgery

Following any kind of surgery, you can anticipate a season of rest and recovery. The recovery period for orthognathic surgery can be anywhere from six to 12 weeks. Once your jaw has fully healed, you will continue to see your orthodontist, fine tuning the alignment of your teeth following the corrections to your jaw.

We encourage patients to take two weeks off from school or work in order to attain complete recovery. During these first two weeks, you will likely experience swelling, which is alleviated with ice packs and a combination of over-the-counter and prescription medications. Most patients find that the worst of the swelling  begins to subside after 72 hours. You may experience some tenderness and some bruising, very normal symptoms that tend to resolve within a couple of weeks.

Additional side- effects from the surgery and the anesthesia may include bleeding and nausea, both of which should subside within a matter of hours.

Aftercare Following Corrective Jaw Surgery

Before your procedure, your doctor will provide you with complete aftercare instructions, including directions about eating, drinking, and oral hygiene. Following these instructions is crucial for a smooth and expedient recovery and for minimizing the risk of complications.

For six weeks following your corrective jaw surgery, you will be advised to stick with a non-chew diet.

During your recovery, you may also be prescribed antibiotics and rinses to use two or three times a day. This helps your incisions heal, and it can help you avoid infection.

It is also advisable that you avoid smoking and tobacco use during your recovery from corrective jaw surgery, and that you avoid strenuous exercise for at least two weeks. Your doctor will give you the green light when you have healed enough to resume normal activities.

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Will Insurance Cover the Cost of Corrective Jaw Surgery?

Many patients inquire as to whether insurance will cover the cost of their orthognathic surgery. Our office is happy to help you navigate questions about insurance or financing.

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Get Corrective Jaw Surgery from Valley OMS

When your jaws are not the proper size for your face and they do not properly align, it can cause both functional and aesthetic problems. These issues can typically be corrected via surgical intervention. Valley OMS is one of the most trusted oral surgery practices in Texas, and we have ample experience performing corrective jaw procedures. To find out more about the treatment options, we invite you to contact us to schedule a consultation.