What is Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery, performed to correct structural deformities of the jawbones, is an advanced treatment method that aims to achieve aesthetic and functional harmony in the jaw and facial skeleton. This surgical intervention is preferred not only for aesthetic purposes but also for the permanent correction of problems affecting basic functions such as chewing, speaking, and breathing.
When orthodontic treatments that interfere with the position of the teeth prove inadequate, surgical repositioning of the jawbones is necessary. Orthognathic surgery aligns the upper and lower jaws optimally, balances facial proportions, and achieves both functional and aesthetically pleasing results. The scope of the surgery is individually tailored and requires a multidisciplinary approach.
In Which Situations Is Orthognathic Surgery Necessary?
Congenital structural abnormalities in the jawbones, developmental asymmetries, or trauma-related deformities may necessitate such surgical interventions. In particular, a protruding or recessed lower jaw, developmental disorders of the upper jaw, or imbalances between jaw structures are factors that negatively impact an individual’s quality of life.
This surgery is an effective method not only for improving appearance but also for functional problems such as speech disorders, chewing difficulties, temporomandibular joint pain, and respiratory problems. Additionally, malocclusions (tooth bite irregularities) that cannot be corrected with orthodontic treatment are also conditions that necessitate orthognathic surgery. Jaw surgery also plays a significant role in smile design and facial aesthetic planning.
What are Lower and Upper Jaw Disorders?
Jaw irregularities are often caused by the relative position of the upper and lower jaws. These irregularities can affect both aesthetic appearance and functionality. Among the most common problems is a lower jaw that is positioned either forward or backward. When the lower jaw is prominent, the individual’s profile appears sharp and prominent, while when it is recessed, facial features can be weak and unbalanced.
Upper jaw deformities often involve problems such as underdevelopment of the jaw, receding teeth, or a narrow jaw. These conditions can affect both tooth alignment and the nose-lip relationship, complicating respiratory function. These types of jaw structural deformities can occur individually or in combination. Each structural problem may require different surgical techniques to correct.
How Is Orthognathic Surgery Performed?
The surgical procedure is performed in a hospital setting, usually under general anesthesia, following detailed planning. Preoperative 3D imaging and model analysis determine how much and in what direction the jaws need to be moved. The surgeon cuts and repositions the upper and/or lower jaw, and secures it with special plates and screws to maintain the desired jaw position.
No external incisions are made during the procedure; all surgical procedures are performed inside the mouth, ensuring a scar-free procedure. The duration of the procedure may vary depending on the number of jaws involved and the complexity of the procedure. After surgery, the patient may need to remain in the hospital for a few days under observation and be on a liquid diet for a period of time. Healing is gradual, and the jawbone begins to heal in approximately six weeks.
Is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary Before Orthognathic Surgery?
Proper alignment of the teeth is essential before the jawbones are positioned. Therefore, orthodontic treatment is an essential part of the orthognathic surgery process. Teeth must be aligned to ensure an ideal occlusion after surgery. If surgery is performed with crooked or positionally misaligned teeth, the results may be functionally and aesthetically unsatisfactory.
The orthodontic preparation process typically lasts between 12 and 18 months. During this time, the teeth are positioned correctly with fixed orthodontic appliances (braces). Short-term orthodontic treatment may continue after surgery. This integrated treatment approach aligns both the teeth and jawbone, ensuring long-term success.
How Long Does Orthognathic Surgery Take?
Surgical time varies depending on the number of jaws involved and the complexity of the techniques used. While a procedure targeting only the lower or upper jaw can take an average of 1.5 to 3 hours, double jaw surgery, which involves both jaws, can take up to 4 hours. The 3D images obtained during the planning phase and the surgeon’s experience play a crucial role in the efficient operation of the procedure.
Preparation and post-anesthesia follow-up should be considered in addition to the duration of the surgery. The patient is admitted to the hospital on the day of surgery and is typically monitored for 1 to 2 days postoperatively. This period is important for monitoring potential complications and ensuring a controlled initial recovery.
What is the Post-Operative Recovery Process Like?
Recovery from surgery is gradual and can take several months. Swelling, bruising, and mild pain are normal in the first few days. The recovery of soft tissues, particularly in the jaw area, and the healing process of bones may vary depending on the patient’s care and overall health.
The first phase of the recovery process generally progresses as follows:
During the first week, feed on liquid and soft foods.
Within 2 to 3 weeks, the swelling subsides and chewing function gradually recovers.
At the end of 6 weeks, bone healing begins, and jaw immobilizer rubbers may be used during this period.
Full functional recovery is achieved within an average of 3 to 6 months.
Throughout this process, oral hygiene must be maintained and the dietary and movement restrictions prescribed by the surgeon must be adhered to. Furthermore, jaw position and tissue healing must be closely monitored with regular checkups.
Is Orthognathic Surgery Painful?
Because the patient is under general anesthesia during the surgery, no pain or discomfort is felt. Mild to moderate pain may be felt after the surgery, but this is usually limited to the first few days. The surgical techniques used, the individual’s pain threshold, and the medications administered determine how comfortable the procedure will be.
Thanks to modern surgical approaches and pain management protocols, recovery is generally tolerable. Swelling and pain can be controlled with cold compresses and regular use of painkillers. Proper use of the surgeon’s recommended supplements and medications can make this process more comfortable.
Does Orthognathic Surgery Change Facial Shape?
Because these types of surgeries directly affect the position of the jawbones, they result in significant changes to the overall facial appearance. Procedures such as moving the lower jaw forward or back, or widening or elevating the upper jaw, reshape the facial features when viewed both in profile and from the front.
The position of the nose, lips, and cheekbones may also change, along with the chin. This change provides an aesthetic transformation, but the primary goal is to establish functional balance and restore natural facial proportions. Especially in individuals with a receding or protruding jaw, the facial expression becomes much more balanced and harmonious after surgery. The changes are permanent, and long-term stability is achieved through post-operative orthodontic treatment.
Is Orthognathic Surgery a Permanent Solution?
This surgical intervention is a permanent solution because it radically alters the structure of the jawbone. After treatment, the jaw structure is stabilized, and the risk of recurrence after bone fusion is complete is quite low. However, to maintain this stability, post-operative orthodontic treatment, oral hygiene, and regular follow-up appointments are necessary.
Properly planned and meticulously executed orthognathic surgery provides long-lasting results, both aesthetically and functionally. When performed on individuals who have completed their developmental stages, recurrence of jaw deterioration is unlikely. This results in lasting improvements in basic functions such as speaking, chewing, and breathing.
Orthognathic Surgery Prices 2026
Surgical costs vary significantly depending on the extent of the procedure, the number of jaws to be treated, and the technical equipment used. Furthermore, the location of the surgery, the orthodontic preparations involved in the treatment, and the surgeon’s experience are also important factors affecting the total cost.
Another factor that can increase costs is the surgery being performed in a hospital setting under general anesthesia. Because each patient’s needs are different, it’s impossible to provide a definitive price. Orthognathic surgery prices may change by 2026, taking these factors into account. Contact us today for orthognathic surgery pricing.
Who can undergo orthognathic surgery?
This surgical procedure is suitable for individuals experiencing significant structural discordance between the upper and lower jaws. It is preferred for individuals experiencing functional problems (e.g., difficulty chewing, speech impairment, and temporomandibular joint pain) due to jaw structure deformities, or for individuals who are dissatisfied with their aesthetic appearance. Furthermore, this surgery becomes unavoidable in cases where the jaw position prevents a proper closure, even after correcting teeth with orthodontic treatment.
Bone development must be complete for surgery to be performed; therefore, it is generally performed at age 18 or older. Individuals with well-controlled systemic diseases and a general health condition suitable for surgery may be candidates for this procedure. The determination of which patients are eligible for this procedure is determined through detailed analysis and multidisciplinary evaluation.
Will it be difficult to talk after surgery?
In the first few days, speech may become temporarily difficult due to limited jaw movement and swelling. Some sounds may become difficult to produce, especially during the first weeks when chin immobilization rubber bands are used. However, this is not permanent. As the swelling subsides, jaw movement regains, and the muscles adapt, speech function may return to its previous state and even become more stable.
Individuals who experienced a lisp or pronunciation problems due to a malformed jaw structure before surgery may observe improvement in these problems after surgery. Except in special cases requiring speech therapy, most individuals regain normal speech patterns within a few weeks of surgery.
Can facial symmetry be completely corrected with surgery?
This surgery offers highly successful results in correcting jaw asymmetries. A shifted lower jaw, a tilted upper jaw, or jaw positions that distort the overall facial structure can all be corrected surgically. However, achieving complete facial symmetry depends not only on bone structure but also on the distribution of soft tissues and genetic factors.
The surgeon aims to achieve an aesthetically balanced appearance while preserving the natural facial structure. While symmetry can be achieved to a large extent, it is impossible for both sides of the face to be completely identical. Post-operatively, the appearance becomes natural and balanced, and the patient’s facial expressions become much more harmonious.
Can orthognathic surgery be performed for aesthetic purposes?
This surgical procedure is primarily performed to correct functional disorders. However, because jaw structure disorders also directly affect facial aesthetics, the results inevitably lead to aesthetic improvements. Therefore, some patients may seek this surgery because they are dissatisfied with their appearance.
Surgery may also be planned for reasons such as correcting the facial profile, defining the jawline, or improving the aesthetics of the smile. Aesthetic interventions also aim to functionally balance the jaw structure. However, a thorough evaluation is necessary before deciding on surgery based solely on cosmetic concerns.
How should nutrition be after surgery?
Nutrition is an important part of recovery and must be managed carefully. In the first weeks, as chewing is impossible, a diet of entirely liquid and soft foods is essential. During this period, nutrient-dense yet easily digestible foods such as soups, purees, and smoothies should be preferred. Hot foods should be avoided, and oral hygiene should be maintained.
First week: Completely liquid and pureed foods
2–4 weeks: Soft, easy-to-chew foods. After 6 months: Transition to light, solid foods.
Weeks and beyond: Return to normal nutrition with doctor’s approval
During this period, adequate calorie and protein intake accelerates healing. Supplements or liquid nutritional supplements can be used with a doctor’s recommendation.
How long does it take to return to work or school?
The time it takes to return to work or school after surgery varies depending on the individual’s recovery rate and the extent of the procedure. Rest is generally recommended for the first week. An average of 10–14 days may be sufficient for swelling to subside, speech to return to normal, and general fatigue to subside. However, this process can vary depending on individual factors.
For individuals performing physically strenuous work, the return period may be slightly longer. Desk workers or students can return to daily activities more quickly with a doctor’s approval. If necessary, a sick note will be issued to ensure the process progresses as planned.
Is orthognathic surgery risky?
As with any surgical procedure, this procedure carries some risks. However, with an experienced surgeon and proper planning, these risks can be minimized. The most common risks include infection, temporary numbness, bleeding, and swelling. Depending on the location of the nerves in the jaw area, some patients may experience temporary loss of sensation.