Corrective Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery): Procedure and Recovery
Updated: 17 minutes ago
Medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: September 2026
Quick Answer
Jaw surgery is a major surgical procedure performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons to correct skeletal irregularities and align the jaws and teeth. It is used to improve facial symmetry, resolve chewing or speaking difficulties, and treat conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea. The process involves repositioning the jawbones and securing them with surgical plates and screws, often requiring several months of recovery and ongoing orthodontic care.
TL;DR
Corrective jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is a comprehensive treatment used to align the upper and lower jaws. This complex process typically involves a combination of surgery and orthodontics spanning two to three years. By repositioning the jawbones, surgeons can treat conditions like sleep apnea, TMJ disorders, and severe bite misalignments, leading to a high success rate and significantly improved quality of life.
Overview of Jaw Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is a corrective procedure designed to fix structural issues within the jawbone. When the upper and lower jaws do not align properly, it can lead to functional problems with eating, speaking, and breathing. Unlike simple dental adjustments, jaw surgery addresses the underlying skeletal structure to ensure the jaws meet correctly.
This treatment is rarely a standalone event. Instead, it is a long-term commitment that integrates surgical intervention with orthodontic care. Most patients begin with braces to prepare their teeth for the new jaw position, followed by the surgery itself, and concluding with a final phase of orthodontics to fine-tune the alignment. Because it involves the skeletal system, the procedure is usually deferred until the patient's jaws have finished growing, typically in the late teenage years.
Conditions Treated by Jaw Surgery
Surgeons utilize orthognathic surgery to address a wide range of functional and structural concerns. While some cases are purely corrective for congenital issues, others may be necessary following an injury or to treat chronic health conditions.
Condition Type | Examples and Indications |
|---|---|
Malocclusion | Overbite, underbite, underjet, and other severe "bad bites." |
Chronic Health Issues | Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and persistent TMJ disorders. |
Structural Anomalies | Cleft lip and palate, prognathism, and undersized jaws. |
Trauma and Disease | Broken jaws, jaw cysts, tumors, or reconstruction after injury. |
Types of Jaw Surgery
The specific surgical approach depends on which part of the jaw requires correction. A surgeon may focus on the upper jaw, the lower jaw, or both, depending on the patient's unique anatomy and treatment goals.
Surgery Type | Targeted Area | Common Use Case |
|---|---|---|
Maxillary Osteotomy | Upper Jaw | Correcting a protruding or recessed upper jaw. |
Mandibular Osteotomy | Lower Jaw | Adjusting a lower jaw that sticks out too much or too little. |
Bimaxillary Osteotomy | Both Jaws | Addressing complex conditions affecting the entire bite structure. |
The Surgical Procedure
Corrective jaw surgery is performed in a hospital setting under general anesthesia, ensuring the patient is asleep and comfortable throughout. The surgeon typically makes incisions inside the mouth to access the jawbones, minimizing visible external scarring. Once the bone is accessed, the surgeon makes precise cuts to reposition the jaw into its ideal location.
In some cases, bone may be added, removed, or reshaped to achieve the desired alignment. Small surgical plates, screws, and wires are used to secure the bone in its new position. These hardware components are designed to stay in the body permanently and integrate with the bone over time. The entire procedure can take between one and four hours, depending on the complexity of the realignment.
Recovery and Long-Term Outlook
Recovery from jaw surgery is a gradual process that requires patience and adherence to a strict post-operative plan. While many patients can return home after a one-to-three-day hospital stay, the initial healing phase lasts approximately six weeks. During the first month, a liquid diet is essential to allow the jaw to stabilize without the pressure of chewing.
Common side effects during the first two weeks include facial swelling, bruising, and minor nasal congestion. Most individuals find they can return to work or school within three to four weeks, although full skeletal healing can take up to a year. Propping the head up with pillows and using ice packs during the first 24 hours are effective ways to manage initial swelling.
Potential Risks and Success Rates
Jaw surgery is considered a highly successful procedure, with studies showing a success rate of nearly 94%. Most patients report a significant improvement in their ability to chew and speak, as well as enhanced facial balance.
However, as with any major operation, there are risks to consider. These include potential infection, excessive bleeding, or an adverse reaction to anesthesia. Complications specific to jaw surgery might include lingering numbness around the mouth, minor dental damage, or temporary difficulty opening the mouth fully. Discussing these risks with a qualified maxillofacial surgeon is an important part of the preoperative process.
Conclusion
Corrective jaw surgery is a transformative procedure that addresses skeletal misalignments at their source. While it involves a significant time commitment and a dedicated recovery period, the functional and aesthetic benefits are often life-changing. By working closely with a surgical and orthodontic team, patients can achieve a healthy, aligned bite that improves their overall well-being for years to come.
Next Steps
If you believe you may be a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, start by scheduling a consultation with your dentist or orthodontist. They can evaluate your bite and determine if a referral to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon is necessary. Preparing for the recovery phase by stocking up on liquid nutrition and arranging for post-operative support will help ensure a successful journey toward your new smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does the entire jaw surgery process take?
The complete treatment, including preoperative and postoperative orthodontics, usually spans two to three years.
Q: Will I have visible scars after jaw surgery?
Most incisions are made inside the mouth, so external scarring is typically minimal or non-existent.
Q: What can I eat immediately after surgery?
You will be on a strictly liquid diet for about a month to allow the jawbone to begin healing without the stress of chewing.
Q: Is jaw surgery used to treat sleep apnea?
Yes, repositioning the jaw can open the airway and is an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea.
Q: At what age can someone have jaw surgery?
It is usually performed after the jaws have finished growing, which is typically in the late teens (14-16 for females, 17-21 for males).
Q: How long is the hospital stay?
Most patients stay in the hospital for one to three days for monitoring following the procedure.
Q: Are the plates and screws permanent?
Yes, the surgical hardware is designed to stay in your jaw permanently and does not usually need to be removed.
Q: When can I return to work or school?
Most patients feel well enough to resume their normal daily activities after three to four weeks.
Q: Does jaw surgery fix a "bad bite"?
Yes, it is specifically designed to correct malocclusions like overbites and underbites that cannot be fixed by braces alone.
Q: How do I manage swelling after the procedure?
Propping your head up with extra pillows and using ice packs for the first 24 hours are the best ways to reduce facial swelling.
Q: Will I still need braces after the surgery?
Yes, most patients continue orthodontic treatment for six to nine months after surgery to finalize the tooth positions.
Q: Is jaw surgery painful?
You will be under general anesthesia during the procedure. Post-operative pain is managed with prescribed medications.
Q: What is orthognathic surgery?
It is the formal medical term for corrective jaw surgery that realigns the jawbones.
Q: Can jaw surgery help with TMJ pain?
Yes, by correcting the alignment of the jaw, the procedure can often relieve the symptoms of TMJ disorders.
Q: What is the success rate of jaw surgery?
The procedure has a very high success rate of approximately 93.9%, with most patients reporting improved quality of life.
References
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or surgical procedure.
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