Jaw Surgery in Tribeca NYC
Who Needs Orthognathic Surgery? | What to Expect | Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need Jaw Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is needed when the top and bottom jaws don’t meet correctly and/or teeth don’t adequately fit within the jaw. Teeth are straightened with orthodontics, and corrective jaw surgery repositions a misaligned jaw. This not only improves facial appearance but also ensures that teeth meet correctly and function properly.
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Who Needs Orthognathic Surgery?
People who can benefit from orthognathic surgery include those with an improper bite, or jaws that are positioned incorrectly. Jaw growth is a gradual process and in some instances, the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. The result can be a host of problems that may affect chewing function, speech, or long-term oral health and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects can also affect jaw alignment. Orthodontics alone can correct bite problems when only the teeth are involved. Orthognathic surgery may be required for the jaws when repositioning is necessary.
Difficulty in the following areas should be evaluated:
- Difficulty in chewing, biting, or swallowing
- Speech problems
- Chronic jaw or TMJ pain
- Open bite
- Protruding jaw
- Breathing problems
Any of these symptoms can exist at birth, be acquired after birth as a result of hereditary or environmental influences, or as a result of trauma to the face. Before any treatment begins, a consultation will be held to perform a complete examination with x-rays. During the pre-treatment consultation process, feel free to ask any questions that you have regarding your treatment. When you are fully informed about the aspects of your care, you and your dental team can make the decision to proceed with treatment together.
Technology & Orthognathic Surgery
Dr. Fay, Dr. Schiffman and Dr. Shank use modern computer-aided techniques and three-dimensional models to show you exactly how your surgery will be approached. Using comprehensive facial x-rays and computer video imaging, we can show you how your bite will be improved. This helps you understand the surgical process and the extent of the proposed treatment.
If you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, Drs. Fay, Schiffman and Shank will work closely with your dentist and orthodontist during your treatment. The actual surgery can move your teeth and jaws into a new position that results in a more attractive, functional, and healthy dental-facial relationship.
What to Expect
- Corrective jaw surgery is a significant intervention requiring many months of preparation.
- The surgery is performed in the hospital and can last between one to four hours.
- Hospital stays of one to three days are normal.
- Braces are maintained during surgery and may need to be removed six to twelve months after surgery.
- The greatest impact of orthognathic surgery is the recovery phase.
- Patients typically may be off work/school from two weeks to one month after surgery.
- Return to normal chewing function may take 2 months and full
function may take one year. - Our goal is to ensure you are well taken care of during and after surgery.
- Weekly appointments are required for up to two months after surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions about Jaw Surgery:
1. What can I eat after jaw surgery?
- After jaw surgery, you’ll need to follow a special diet to allow your jaw to heal properly. Initially, you’ll be on a liquid or soft food diet, such as smoothies, soups, and pureed foods, for several weeks. As healing progresses, you can gradually introduce more solid foods, but you’ll need to avoid hard, chewy, or crunchy foods for a while.
2. What are the benefits of jaw surgery?
- Jaw surgery can significantly improve your ability to chew, speak, and breathe properly. It also helps correct facial asymmetry and improve your overall appearance. In addition to functional benefits, many people experience relief from chronic pain, headaches, and jaw-related conditions after surgery.
3. How long does jaw surgery take, and is it painful?
- The surgery typically lasts between 1-4 hours, depending on the extent of the correction. As for pain, it is generally well-managed with medications prescribed by Drs. Fay, Schiffman and Shank, though patients can expect some discomfort and swelling during the initial recovery period.
4. Will I need to have my teeth braces on before and after jaw surgery?
- Yes, most patients will wear braces for several months or even up to a year before and after surgery. Braces help align the teeth and prepare the jaw for the proper position before the surgery and are often worn for a period afterward to fine-tune the bite.
5. What are the risks and complications of jaw surgery?
- As with any surgery, jaw surgery carries potential risks such as infection, bleeding, nerve damage (leading to numbness or altered sensation), bite issues, or the need for additional surgeries. Drs. Fay, Schiffman and Shank will discuss these risks in detail, and appropriate precautions will be taken to minimize them.
