Summery
Corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) realigns the jaws to improve bite, speech, breathing, and facial balance. Dr. Shreya Krishna in Delhi offers advanced, digitally planned treatments – from single-jaw to double-jaw surgery – ensuring precision, comfort, and lasting results for improved function, appearance, and confidence.
Types of Orthognathic Surgery / Corrective Jaw Surgery – Risks & Benefits
Jaw irregularities can impact more than just your smile. They may affect how you chew, breathe, or even speak. While braces help align your teeth, certain skeletal problems require more than just orthognathics. That’s where corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, comes in. This procedure is designed to realign the jaws, improve function, and restore facial harmony. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons perform this. In Delhi, Dr. Shreya Krishna is recognized for her skill in this field, combining clinical expertise with advanced digital planning to deliver outstanding outcomes.
What Is Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery?
Corrective jaw surgery addresses structural issues in the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both. Some people are born with these imbalances, while others develop them over time due to injury or medical conditions. The goal of the surgery is to improve jaw alignment, bite function, facial proportions, and often quality of life.
Common reasons to consider jaw surgery include:
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Chronic jaw pain or headaches
- Speech problems
- Sleep apnea
- A noticeably unbalanced facial appearance (What is Facial Asymmetry)
Different Types of Jaw Surgery
Depending on the nature of the problem, one or more of the following procedures may be recommended:
Upper Jaw Surgery (Maxillary Osteotomy)
Used to correct an open bite, crossbite, or midface deficiency. This procedure repositions the upper jaw for better alignment and balance.
Lower Jaw Surgery (Mandibular Osteotomy)
This is performed to correct a protruding or receding lower jaw. The surgeon carefully shifts the jaw into the correct position, improving bite and function.
Double Jaw Surgery (Bimaxillary Osteotomy)
Sometimes, both jaws require correction. This combined procedure ensures that the upper and lower jaws are properly aligned with each other and the rest of the face.
Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)
Though not a jaw surgery per se, genioplasty is often performed alongside jaw procedures to enhance the overall facial profile, especially when the chin is underdeveloped or asymmetrical.
Read more about What is Genioplasty or Chin Job?
How do we prepare for a Jaw Surgery?
Corrective jaw surgery is usually planned months ahead and includes a team approach involving your orthodontist and maxillofacial surgeon. Typically, patients wear braces for 12–18 months before surgery to align the teeth. Pre-surgical imaging—such as X-rays and 3D scans—is used to map out the procedure in detail.
Patients are given clear instructions about medications, eating restrictions before surgery, and post-operative care. Dr. Shreya Krishna also offers digital surgical planning to help patients visualize what their face will look like after the surgery.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Jaw surgery is performed under general anesthesia, usually in a hospital setting. The surgeon makes incisions inside the mouth to access the bones, avoiding external scars. Once the jaw is repositioned, it’s secured using small plates and screws.
Most procedures take two to four hours, depending on complexity. After surgery, a short hospital stay (1–3 days) is common for observation and pain management. Learn about Top 5 Jaw Fracture Management Techniques in Delhi.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery is a gradual process. Swelling and mild discomfort are normal in the first few weeks. A soft or liquid diet is required initially to protect the surgical site. As healing progresses, patients return to their orthodontist for continued treatment, which may include further adjustment of braces.
Most people resume light activities within 2–3 weeks, while complete healing can take up to 6–12 months. Regular follow-ups help monitor jaw position, bite stability, and facial symmetry.
Risks to Consider
Although jaw surgery is generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential risks:
- Nerve sensitivity or numbness, especially in the lower lip or chin
- Infection or minor bleeding
- Temporary difficulty speaking or chewing
- Jaw stiffness
- Hardware complications (in rare cases)
Choosing a well-qualified surgeon significantly reduces these risks. Dr. Shreya Krishna uses advanced techniques and precision tools to improve safety and accuracy.
What are the key benefits of Corrective Jaw Surgery?
- Improved Ability to Chew, Speak, and Breathe Comfortably
Corrective jaw surgery aligns the jaws properly, allowing the teeth to meet in the right position. This makes it much easier to chew food thoroughly, speak clearly, and even breathe more freely, especially for those who’ve had difficulty due to airway issues like sleep apnea or nasal obstruction.
- Relief from Chronic Jaw Pain or Strain
Misaligned jaws can put constant pressure on jaw joints and muscles, leading to chronic discomfort, headaches, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Jaw surgery can ease this strain, bringing lasting relief from pain that may have been present for years.
- Correction of Facial Asymmetry and Improved Appearance
A misaligned jaw can cause noticeable facial imbalance, like a protruding lower jaw or receding chin. Surgery restores harmony to facial features, often resulting in a more balanced and naturally attractive appearance. While it’s not a cosmetic procedure per se, the aesthetic changes are often very welcome.
- Enhanced Self-Confidence and Emotional Well-Being
The combined impact of improved function, comfort, and appearance can be transformative. Many patients report feeling more confident in social settings, more willing to smile, and less self-conscious about how they look or speak. This boost in self-esteem often carries over into other areas of life.
- Long-Term Oral Health Improvements
Proper jaw alignment reduces abnormal wear on the teeth and minimizes the risk of tooth damage, gum disease, and jawbone deterioration over time. It also supports better results from orthognathic treatments like braces or Invisalign, helping those results last longer.
Why Choose Dr. Shreya Krishna in Delhi?
Dr. Shreya Krishna is one of Delhi’s leading oral and maxillofacial surgeons. With advanced training, years of experience, and a commitment to patient-centered care, she provides a full spectrum of facial and jaw corrective procedures.
Her clinic offers a blend of modern technology and compassionate care. Patients benefit from digital planning tools, minimally invasive techniques, and personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique anatomy and goals.
Take away
Corrective jaw surgery isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about restoring comfort, function, and balance. Whether you’re dealing with a severe bite issue, facial asymmetry, or sleep apnea, orthognathic surgery can offer real, lasting improvement.
If you think you might be a candidate, consider scheduling a consultation with Dr. Shreya Krishna. With expert hands and advanced planning methods, she can help you take the next step toward a healthier, more confident life.
FAQs
Who is a candidate for orthognathic surgery?
Ideal candidates include individuals with severe jaw misalignment affecting chewing, speech, breathing, TMJ function, or facial appearance, especially if orthognathics alone cannot resolve the issue.
Will there be visible facial scars?
No incisions are made inside the mouth. Rarely, small external incisions may be used but are strategically hidden.
Is the titanium hardware permanent?
Yes. Plates and screws bond to the bone and typically remain in place indefinitely. They do not set off metal detectors or interfere with MRIs.
How long will I be in braces?
Braces are worn for about 12–18 months before surgery and the remaining 6–12 months afterward, totaling approximately two years.
When can I return to work or school?
Most patients resume desk work or school after 3–4 weeks; physical activities take longer, depending on individual healing.
Will jaw strength return fully?
Yes, initial chewing strength is reduced, but full function returns roughly within a year.
