Orthosurgical operations are performed to esthetically correct jaw position or a defective occlusion (contact between teeth) for which orthodontics is unsuitable. The aim of these operations is to correct facial asymmetry or to widen air passages in cases of obstructive sleep apnea.
The patient will undergo orthodontic treatment in advance of the surgery. This may take up to a year and a half – or more – depending on the severity of the dental occlusion. During the preparation period the patient will be under the supervision of the Maxillofacial Surgery Unit and will need to have a number of dental impressions and measurements taken of specific facial parameters. This is to determine how the preparatory pre-op process is progressing. In keeping with the findings, the doctors will set a suitable date for the operation. The patient will have to undergo a series of X-rays at different stages of the preparatory process, including panoramic, lateral cephalometric, and PA (posteroanterior). Other X-rays may be needed after surgery.
The surgery involves moving the mandibles (jaws) into a new position and setting them in place with plates and screws. Sometimes a particular operation may require intermandibular fixation for 4-6 weeks, during which both upper and lower teeth are fully occluded and cannot be separated. However, in the majority of cases the patient leaves the operation with his or her mouth open and with no need for long-term intermandibular fixation. The surgery – under general anesthetic – employs an intra-oral approach and lasts 4-6 hours.
After the operation, patients are hospitalized in the Maxillofacial Department for 2-4 days, during which they receive intravenous antibiotic treatment, painkillers if necessary, liquids and instructions for recommended nutrition at home. We recommend a soft and runny diet for at least 4-6 weeks. It is crucial to maintain oral hygiene – brushing teeth and repeated mouth washing – in order to prevent infections and inflammations that could complicate recovery. Using a water jet can help with this too (your doctor can give you details.)
Monitoring after surgery involves visits after a week, two weeks, a month, 3 months, 6 months and finally a year after the operation. These checks include panoramic, lateral cephalometric, and PA X-rays. Other x-rays will be taken if necessary.