Double jaw surgery, or bimaxillary osteotomy, is a type of orthognathic surgery performed to correct facial and dental deformities and/or functional dental issues. It is also used cosmetically to improve the shape and proportions of the face.
The procedure involves operating on both jaws at once, providing the surgeon with the ability to adjust the jaw bones and shape the face for a natural, aesthetically pleasing outcome. During the surgery, the surgeon will make small incisions in the mouth and gums to access the jaw bones.
Once the bones have been exposed, the surgeon will then reshape the bones and move them into the desired position. The jaw bones are held in place with small titanium plates and screws. The entire process usually takes several hours to complete and patients often require an overnight hospital stay.
Recovery time for double jaw surgery varies depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. In general, it can take up to six weeks for the bones to fully heal and up to six months for the facial muscles to fully adjust to the new shape of the face. Patients typically experience some swelling and bruising, but this will subside over time.
Double jaw surgery can have a dramatic impact on your appearance and can improve the functionality of your jaw. In addition, it can help to correct any misalignment in the teeth, which can improve speech, chewing, and swallowing. If you are considering double jaw surgery, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your surgeon.
The outcome of double jaw surgery is usually long-lasting and can have a profound impact on the patient’s quality of life. If you are unhappy with the shape or position of your jaw, double jaw surgery may be the right choice for you. Consult with your doctor to discuss your options and find out if double jaw surgery is right for you.
When is Double Surgery Recommended?
Double jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a complex procedure that must be performed by a skilled and experienced maxillofacial surgeon. It involves making incisions in the jaw and using specialized tools to reshape and reposition the bones.
Double jaw surgery is usually recommended when the jaws are either misaligned or disproportionally sized. Depending on the patient’s needs, it may be used to correct both functional and cosmetic issues.
Functional issues commonly addressed by double jaw surgery include:
- Gaps or overcrowding of the teeth
- Inability to close the mouth properly
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
- Facial asymmetry
- Inability to breathe properly
Cosmetically, double jaw surgery can be used to correct:
- A “gummy” smile
- A jaw that is too small, recessed, or protruding
- A jutting chin
- A protruding mouth
- A face that is too long
Before recommending double jaw surgery, a maxillofacial surgeon will perform a thorough evaluation of the patient’s facial structure and determine the most appropriate treatment plan. The procedure will only be recommended if the surgeon believes it will provide the patient with meaningful functional or cosmetic benefits.
Double jaw surgery is a complex and invasive procedure, and is not recommended lightly. It is important to discuss all of the risks, benefits, and alternatives with your surgeon before deciding to proceed.