Corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is surgery used to correct a significant discrepancy between the upper and lower jaw. Common conditions that are treated with jaw surgery include facial aymmetry, underbite, overbite, open bite, gummy smile, obstructive sleep apnea and mouth breathing. Certain craniofacial disorders such as hemifacial microsomia and cleft palate require corrective jaw surgery as part of overall treatment. Jaw surgery is indicated when orthodontic treatment alone is not enough to correct misalignment of the teeth and jaws. Treatment is almost always coordinated with an orthdontist to ensure an optimum final result

Corrective jaw surgery is meant to enhance the appearance naturally without resulting in an artificially produced look that cosmetic surgery procedures often create. Jaw surgery not only improves the esthetic appearance of the face but there are many functional benefits as well. Many patients with jaw discomfort will have reduced pain after surgery. Some speech disorders will improve significantly with surgery. The ability to properly chew food is also significantly improved.

Jaw surgery takes between two to four hours depending on the extent of surgery required. Single jaw surgery may be performed in our office-based surgery center. Double jaw surgery usually is performed in the hospital operating room. Recovery typically takes from 1 to 3 weeks prior to returning to work or school. Patients are encouraged to be up and about, usually the same day as surgery, without overexertion. There is some facial swelling expected, the majority of which disappears in 1 to 2 weeks. Surprisingly there is relatively little pain associated with the surgery and most patients require minimal amounts of pain medication. The jaws are almost never wired shut with the advent of titanium plate and screw technology that holds the jaw bones together during healing. Patients will be on a liquid and puree diet for the first week after surgery and then will be allowed to eat very soft foods for the next 5 to 7 weeks until the jaw bones are fully healed.

Dr. Ferdowsmakan routinely performs corrective jaw surgery in his practice and has extensive experience treating patients with severe jaw discrepancies and facial asymmetries. He has a passion for helping patients achieve a natural smile and dental occlusion. Dr. Ferdowsmakan has found tremendous fulfillment by performing this life-changing treatment for his patients. He has treated patients from across California and from neighboring states.

If you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery Dr. Ferdowsmakan will work closely with your orthodontist to plan your treatment. Jaw surgery will move your teeth and jaws into a functional relationship and will result in a harmonious and esthetic facial appearance.