Orthognatic surgery

Orthognathic surgery is a treatment used to correct malocclusion problems.

Treatment consists of orthodontic treatment and jaw surgery, performed by a face-jaw surgeon.

For 17 years now, I’ve been working with jaw surgeon S. Grybauskas MD. He is a trusted partner and an excellent surgeon. Together, we enjoy professional achievements and give lectures.

Some of our patients have significant jaw growth disorders that cause malocclusion problems. These are the result of various reasons, including genetic and environmental factors, systemic illnesses, addiction, etc.

In orthognathic surgery, it is important for the orthodontist to distinguish between a patient who needs surgery and a patient who can be successfully treated with orthodontic devices.

If a patient complains about their facial appearance, it is a sign that a consultation with a jaw surgeon is needed. About 10% of orthodontic patients must be treated surgically. If a patient has significant jaw deformations, orthodontic treatment can only cause serious complications, including gum injuries, teeth loss, stability problems, traumatic occlusion, and worsening of the facial appearance. Some of those complications are permanent.

During orthognathic surgery, correction of a malocclusion is performed when one or both jaws gain a new position that securely corrects the correlation between both jaws. Later during orthodontic treatment, a correct occlusion is made. Another important factor of orthognathic surgery is that when the jaws are moved forward or backwards, up or down, soft tissues of the face (i.e., chin, lips, cheeks and the tip of the nose) also move with them and the height of the face changes. After the jawbone gains the correct position, the facial profile becomes straight and a new harmony of features appears.

In all the years of my practice, I have yet to meet a patient who regretted choosing orthognathic surgery. While patients are happy with their new face and smile, the most important sign of a successful treatment is a stable result.

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