Lower jaw surgery is a corrective procedure to fix problems with the lower jaw, repair a damaged jaw, or improve jaw function. Dr. Kayvan Fathimani is a triple-board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon committed to helping you restore optimal jawbone function and correct misalignment problems.
Correcting Lower Jaw Problems
The lower jaw, or mandible, is the only movable bone in the human face. It functions as a hinge, allowing the mouth to open and close. The lower jaw also houses the teeth and provides support for the tongue. The lower jaw can be affected by several medical conditions, including TMJ disorders, malocclusion, and pathogenic problems. Surgery may be required to correct these problems, and that’s where lower jaw surgery in Lone Tree enters the picture.
What is Lower Jaw Surgery?
Lower jaw surgery, also called orthognathic surgery, is performed to correct a wide range of minor and major skeletal and dental irregularities, including the misalignment of the jaws and teeth. These deformities can cause serious problems with chewing, speaking, and breathing. They can also lead to facial imbalance and an impaired appearance. Lower jaw surgery can also improve the appearance of the face. When the jaws are properly aligned, it can result in a more symmetrical and pleasing appearance.
It Starts With Your Consultation
When you come in for a consultation for lower jaw surgery, Dr. Fathimani will talk to you about your expectations from the surgery. Dr. Fathimani will ask you about your medical history and thoroughly examine your mouth, teeth, and jaws. Based on all this information, Dr. Fathimani will determine if lower jaw surgery is right for you.
If Dr. Fathimani believes that lower jaw surgery in Lone Tree is right for you, he will go over the different options for surgery. There are different ways to approach lower jaw surgery, and Dr. Fathimani will discuss the risks and benefits of each option. Once you have decided on a plan of action, Dr. Fathimani will go over what you can expect before, during, and after surgery.
Lower Jaw Surgery Can Help With:
- Congenital problems related to the jaws
- Chronic jaw joint pain (TMJ)
- Involuntary mouth breathing
- Inability to bring the lips together
- Misalignment of the upper and lower jaws
- Trauma or injury to the jaws
- Receding lower jaw
- Pathology affecting the lower jaw
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Problems with swallowing or speech
- Excessive wear and tear of the teeth
- Facial imbalance because of underbites, overbites, and crossbites
If you have any questions about lower jaw surgery, contact our office for an appointment.
The Lower Jaw Surgery Process
The specific details of the surgery differ from one patient to the next because everyone has different needs and goals. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with intravenous sedation, so you won’t experience discomfort. The surgeon will make incisions inside your mouth to access and reposition the misaligned jawbone. Sometimes, the surgeon may need to remove a section of bone or add bone via grafts.
In addition to repositioning the bone, the surgeon may also need to change the soft tissue, such as the muscles or ligaments. After making changes to the jawbone, the surgeon may use titanium screws or plates to stabilize the jawbone and facilitate natural bone augmentation. After making all necessary adjustments, the surgeon will close the incisions with stitches. Lower jaw surgery in Lone Tree usually takes several hours.
Lower Jaw Surgery: Recovery & Downtime
The most common side effects of lower jaw surgery include pain, swelling, bruising, and numbness. These side effects are usually mild and resolve within a few weeks. More serious side effects, such as infection, nerve damage, and bleeding, are rare but can occur. Recovery from lower jaw surgery usually takes 4 to 6 weeks. During this time, it is important to eat soft foods, take pain medication as prescribed, and practice good oral hygiene.
Downtime following lower jaw surgery will vary from person to person. Most people must take at least a week off from work or school. You should also expect some swelling and bruising around your face, which can take several weeks to resolve. After the first week, you can resume normal daily activities and work, but strenuous workouts must be avoided for at least four to six weeks. Please follow the surgeon’s aftercare guidelines.
Jaw Surgery Before & Afters
Schedule Your Consultation
Dr. Kayvan Fathimani is a multi-board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon specializing in cutting-edge surgical techniques. He listens to your goals and concerns, thoroughly examines your jaws, and curates a personalized treatment plan to improve your functional and cosmetic outcome. Please schedule a consultation to explore your options for lower jaw surgery in Lone Tree.
