According to the NIH, around 5% of the population experiences jaw misalignment severe enough to require orthognathic surgery.
For those considering this significant procedure, one of the most pressing questions is, how long does orthognathic surgery take?
Today, we’re taking a closer look into the time frame for both the surgery itself and the recovery process. Understanding these details will help you prepare and set realistic expectations for the journey ahead.
Overview of Orthognathic Surgery
Orthognathic surgery, commonly known as jaw surgery, is a procedure aimed at correcting the alignment of the jaws. It’s usually done to improve both function and appearance. There are three main reasons patients might undergo this surgery:
- Correcting Misaligned Jaws
- Improving Facial Aesthetics
- Addressing Medical Conditions
Correcting Misaligned Jaws
When the upper and lower jaws are not properly aligned, everyday activities like eating and speaking can become challenging. Orthognathic surgery aims to bring the jaws into the correct position, allowing for better function. Patients with severe overbites, underbites, or open bites often benefit from this procedure.
Improving Facial Aesthetics
A misaligned jaw can cause facial asymmetry or an imbalanced profile. By correcting these issues, orthognathic surgery can provide a more harmonious look that patients feel proud of.
Addressing Medical Conditions
Beyond appearance and functionality, there are health reasons to consider jaw surgery. Conditions like sleep apnea might be alleviated through this procedure. TMJ disorders that cause pain and discomfort can also be addressed, providing long-term relief for patients.
Pre-Surgery Considerations and Preparation Time
There are several important steps to take before undergoing orthognathic surgery. The preparation process can be just as critical as the surgery itself, and it often requires a good deal of time and effort.
One of the first things to consider is the need for orthodontic treatment, which usually involves wearing braces. It’s essential for aligning the teeth and ensuring they will fit together properly after surgery. The duration of this orthodontic phase can vary, but it often lasts between 12 to 18 months.
In addition to orthodontics, patients need to undergo medical evaluations to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery. It includes blood tests, imaging studies, and consultations with various specialists.
The goal is to identify any potential risks and address them before the surgery date. The overall preparation time can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the patient’s health. However, it’s common for the entire pre-surgery process, including orthodontics, to take about one to two years.
Mental preparation is also a key part of the process. Orthognathic surgery is a significant procedure that can have a big impact on a patient’s life.
How Long Does Orthognathic Surgery Take?
One key factor in determining jaw surgery time frame is whether one or both jaws are being operated on. A single-jaw surgery is generally quicker, often taking around two to three hours.
However, if both the upper and lower jaws need adjustment, the surgery can extend to four or more hours. This is because operating on both jaws requires more precision and time to ensure proper alignment.
The complexity of the surgery also plays a significant role in the time it takes. Some patients require more extensive reshaping of the bone, which can add to the overall duration.
It may include work on the chin, cheeks, or other facial structures, depending on the patient’s needs. The more intricate the corrections, the longer the surgery will take.
The surgeon’s experience and technique can impact how long the procedure lasts. A skilled surgeon with years of experience may complete the surgery more efficiently, reducing the overall time.
Immediate Post-Surgery and Hospital Stay
After orthognathic surgery, the initial recovery phase begins in the hospital. Patients are usually taken to a recovery room, where they are closely monitored by medical staff.
This period is important to ensure the patient is stable and to manage any immediate pain or discomfort. Most patients spend a few hours in the recovery room before being transferred to a hospital room for further observation.
The length of the hospital stay can vary depending on the patient’s condition and the complexity of the surgery. For many, a stay of one to two days is typical.
During this time, doctors will monitor vital signs, provide pain management, and assess the patient’s ability to eat and drink. They’ll also ensure that there are no complications from the surgery, such as excessive bleeding or infection.
Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and some discomfort during this time. Nurses and doctors will provide instructions on how to care for the surgical area and manage any pain.
Once the medical team is satisfied with the patient’s progress, they will be discharged with specific instructions for home care.
Post-Surgery Recovery Time
The long-term recovery process after orthognathic surgery is gradual and requires patience. It starts as soon as the patient leaves the hospital and continues for several months.
During the first few weeks, most patients experience significant swelling, which will gradually decrease over time. It can take up to two weeks for the swelling to go down enough for patients to begin feeling more comfortable.
Eating and speaking may be challenging during the early stages of recovery. Patients will likely need to follow a soft or liquid diet for several weeks while their jaws heal. Over time, they can slowly reintroduce solid foods into their diet. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon will be necessary to monitor progress and ensure the bones are healing properly.
Returning to normal activities, such as work or school, usually happens within four to six weeks after surgery. However, full recovery, including the complete healing of bones and tissues, can take several months.
By six months to a year, most patients have fully recovered.
The Orthognathic Treatment Process
So, how long does orthognathic surgery take? The procedure and recovery times vary, but understanding the entire process helps set realistic expectations.
At Jenkins, Morrow & Gayheart, we’re committed to delivering state-of-the-art care with individualized, compassionate attention. We know that surgery can be intimidating, no matter what age you are. That’s why we always make sure every patient’s experience is a comfortable one.
Get in touch today to find out how we can help with your jaw surgery.
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