Corrective jaw surgery is performed to correct a wide range of minor and major skeletal irregularities of the upper jaw, lower jaw and/or chin. Correction of jaw irregularities improves chewing, speaking and breathing (improves function). Additionally, the patient's appearance may be dramatically enhanced as a result of their surgery.

CANDIDATES FOR CORRECTIVE JAW SURGERY
People who may benefit from corrective jaw surgery include those with an improper bite resulting from misaligned teeth and/or jaws. This usually results from different growth rates of the upper and lower jaws. Injuries and birth defects may also affect jaw alignment. While orthodontics can usually correct bite, or "occlusion," problems when only the teeth are misaligned, corrective jaw surgery may be necessary to correct misalignment of the jaws.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR CONSULTATION
Your orthodontist and Dr. Stephenson will work together to determine whether you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery. A couple of office visits are necessary prior to accomplishing the surgery. These visits will include obtaining dental models, review of x-rays and obtaining photographs. Dr. Stephenson will determine which corrective surgical procedure is appropriate. It is important to understand that your treatment will include orthodontics before and probably after surgery.

Dr. Stephenson encourages you to discuss any areas of your appearance that concern you as well what you hope to accomplish with surgery. This will help Dr. Stephenson understand your goals/expectations and whether these expectations can be realistically achieved.

CORRECTIVE JAW SURGERY PROCEDURE
Dr. Stephenson will reposition the jawbones in accordance with your specific treatment. In some cases, bone may be added, taken away or reshaped. Surgical plates, screws, wires and rubber bands may be used to hold your jaws in their new positions. Incisions are usually made inside the mouth to reduce visible scarring; however, some cases do require small incisions outside of the mouth.

CORRECTIVE JAW SURGERY RECOVERY
After surgery, Dr. Stephenson will provide instructions for a soft/pureed diet and give you guidelines for transitioning to a normal diet. You may also be asked to refrain from using tobacco products. There may be moderate swelling and bruising that occurs after the repair. The swelling and bruising usually subsides in about 7-10 days but this varies between patients. Patients are generally able to return to work or school within 7-10 days after surgery. Complete healing usually occurs in about six weeks.

CORRECTIVE JAW SURGERY CREDENTIALS
Credentials matter. Dr. Stephenson is board certified in two important surgical specialties for corrective jaw surgery, facial reconstruction and facial cosmetic surgery. His certifications include the American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery and the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Dr. Stephenson will be happy to any questions pertaining to corrective jaw surgery or any aspect of plastic surgery. To obtain more information call Signature Plastic Surgery (770) 466-4700.