Orthognathic surgery is a corrective procedure that addresses misaligned jaws and teeth, harmonizing the relationship between the dental arches and the jaws, eliminating any interferences, and aligning the teeth to ensure proper bone movement during surgery to achieve the desired correction. It helps in resolving issues such as uneven teeth alignment, protruding upper and lower teeth, and a noticeably long chin, which are common in individuals seeking orthognathic solutions.
A normal jaw angle should measure around 120 degrees, appearing smooth without sharp edges. Individuals with an enlarged jaw angle, however, exhibit two main conditions: a smaller angle that gives a square-shaped face, which may appear less delicate in women; and an outward flaring and thickening of the jawbone that results in a trapezoidal face shape, contradicting aesthetic standards. This condition is often accompanied by hypertrophy of the masseter muscle, leading to a wider, trapezoidal facial appearance in individuals, with a masculine jawline in profile, lacking the softness and smoothness desired. Historically, treatment of the jaw angle involved extraoral incisions, leaving scars and uneven bone cuts that did not yield a smooth appearance, with the potential risk of facial nerve damage in rare cases. Nowadays, an intraoral bone grinding method is preferred to prevent complications. For treating an enlarged jaw angle, local anesthesia is used, and a 3cm intraoral incision allows for the grinding of the jawbone with minimal blood loss and no risk of facial nerve damage, resulting in a smooth bone surface. The procedure can also include the removal of buccal fat pads and augmentation of the chin.
| Before Orthognathic Surgery | After Orthognathic Surgery |
|---|---|
| Misaligned jaws and teeth | Aligned jaws and teeth |
| Uneven teeth alignment | Evenly aligned teeth |
| Protruding upper and lower teeth | Repositioned upper and lower teeth |
| Noticeably long chin | Balanced chin length |
| Abnormal jaw angles | Normal jaw angles |
| Potential risk of facial nerve damage | Minimal risk of facial nerve damage |
| Scar from extraoral incisions | No visible scars |
| Uneven bone cuts | Smooth bone surface |
Jaw Angles and Facial Aesthetics
The angle of the jaw is a crucial element in facial aesthetics. A well-proportioned jaw angle contributes to a harmonious and balanced facial structure. A smaller jaw angle can create a square face shape, which may be perceived as less delicate, especially in women. On the other hand, an outward flaring jawbone can lead to a trapezoidal face shape, which deviates from the ideal of a soft and flowing contour (The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery).
Masseter Muscle and Facial Width
The masseter muscle plays a significant role in the width and shape of the face. Hypertrophy of this muscle can lead to a wider facial appearance, which may be considered less aesthetically pleasing. The prominence of the masseter muscle can also contribute to a more masculine facial profile, which may not align with individual preferences (National Center for Biotechnology Information).
Intraoral Approach to Jaw Surgery
Surgical advancements have allowed for an intraoral approach to jaw surgery, which avoids the complications associated with extraoral incisions. This method reduces the risk of visible scarring and facial nerve damage, and it results in a smoother bone surface post-surgery. The intraoral technique allows for a more precise and controlled grinding of the jawbone, leading to better aesthetic outcomes (American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons).
Buccal Fat Pads and Chin Augmentation
During orthognathic surgery, the removal of buccal fat pads and chin augmentation can further enhance facial aesthetics. The buccal fat pads, if prominent, can give a fuller appearance to the cheeks, which some individuals may wish to reduce for a more streamlined facial profile. Chin augmentation addresses the balance of the facial features, ensuring that the chin is proportional to the rest of the face (SmartTriagesurgery).
Individuals and Orthognathic Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is not only about correcting dental and jaw misalignments but also about improving the overall facial harmony and aesthetics. People seeking this procedure are often looking to enhance their appearance and self-confidence. It’s important to note that orthognathic surgery is a significant decision that should be made after thorough consultation with a qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon (American Dental Association).
Post-Operative Care
Following orthognathic surgery, proper post-operative care is essential for a smooth recovery. This includes maintaining a soft food diet, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress. Patients are advised to follow the surgeon’s instructions closely to ensure the best possible outcome (National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research).
Long-Term Effects and Satisfaction
The long-term effects of orthognathic surgery can be transformative for individuals. Not only does it improve facial aesthetics, but it also can enhance function, such as chewing and speech. Patient satisfaction with orthognathic surgery is generally high, with many reporting improved quality of life after the procedure. However, it’s crucial to have realistic expectations and understand that results may vary from person to person (Harvard Health Publishing).