Is Jaw Surgery a Major Surgery?

Have you ever wondered if jaw surgery is a major one or even what types of jaw surgery New York has to offer? If you’re considering orthognathic surgery in White Plains, it’s likely because you want to make a physical change to your face. It’s important to understand exactly what surgery entails, as well as whether it’s considered minor or major. 

In this article, we’ll discuss the realities of jaw surgery and how it fits into the world of cosmetic surgery. We will also explore the risks, benefits, and possible outcomes associated with this procedure. So that you can make an informed decision about whether this is right for you. Read on to find out all the necessary information you need. 

What is Jaw Surgery?

Jaw surgery is a type of orthognathic (reconstructive) surgery. It is usually performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS).  Its aim is to correct a variety of minor and major skeletal and dental irregularities. Below are some of the conditions that jaw surgery can treat:

An improper bite or malocclusion (crooked teeth)

Facial injury or birth defects

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)

Sleep apnea

Different Types of Jaw Surgery

Jaw surgery is used to correct a wide variety of conditions that affect the function and/or aesthetics of the jaw. The most common reason for jaw surgery is to improve the alignment of the teeth and jaws. Sleep apnea, TMJ disorders, and certain types of head and neck cancer can also be treated with jaw surgery.

There are several different types of jaw surgery, each with its own benefits and risks. The type of surgery that is right for you will depend on your individual condition.

The most common type of jaw surgery is orthognathic surgery or reconstructive jaw surgery. This type of surgery is used to correct misalignments of the teeth and jaws. It can also be used to treat facial injuries and birth defects. Orthognathic surgery should be performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS).

Another type of jaw surgery is called maxillomandibular advancement (MMA). This type of surgery is used to treat sleep apnea. MMA involves moving the upper jaw forward and the lower jaw backward in order to widen the airway. This type of surgery is typically performed by an ENT specialist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

Yet another type of jaw surgery is called sagittal split osteotomy (SSO). This type of surgery is used primarily for cosmetic reasons to change the shape of the jawline. SSO involves cutting the jawbone in half and then repositioning it.

The Pros and Cons of Jaw Surgery

There are several advantages and disadvantages associated with jaw surgery. One pro is that it can improve the function of your bite and make it easier to chew and speak. It can also improve the appearance of your face and jawline. Another pro is that it can correct birth defects or damage from an injury.

There are also a few cons to jaw surgery. One con is that it is a major surgery with a long recovery time. You may also experience some pain, swelling, and bruising after the surgery. There is also a risk of nerve damage, which can cause numbness or tingle in your face. 

Overall, jaw surgery is a major decision that should be made with the help of your doctor and dentist.

How to Prepare for Jaw Surgery?

Jaw surgery is a major surgery that should not be taken lightly. For your health’s sake, it is important to do your research and consult with your surgeon. Here are some tips on how to prepare for jaw surgery:

Talk to your surgeon

It is important to have an open and honest conversation with your surgeon about your expectations regarding the procedure.  Risks or complications that could occur should also be discussed well. This will help you understand what to expect before, during, and after the surgery.

Quit smoking

If you smoke cigarettes, it is important to quit at least two weeks before the surgery. Smoking can increase the risk of complications and hinder the healing ability of the body.

Eat more healthy foods

Eating a nutritious diet helps the body heal and recover from surgery more quickly. Be sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole foods, and protein in the weeks leading up to your procedure.

Get plenty of rest! 

Getting enough sleep is crucial for helping the body heal after surgery. Make sure to get plenty of rest in the days and weeks leading up to your procedure.

Minor or Major surgery?

You should be sure of your decision if you are considering jaw surgery. It is a major surgery and can disrupt your life for several weeks or months afterward. Furthermore, you should know what to expect from your jaw surgery.

What to Expect After Jaw Surgery

After undergoing your jaw surgery, it is normal and should be expected to feel some pain and discomfort. You will likely have some swelling and bruising around your face and mouth. Your jaw may feel stiff and sore, and it may be hard to open your mouth wide. You may also experience headaches. These symptoms usually go away after a few days as your body continues to heal itself.

It is important to take it easy after your jaw surgery and not overdo it. Get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activities. Follow your doctor’s instructions on how to care for yourself and take any medications as prescribed.

Most people recover from jaw surgery without any major problems. However, as with any surgery, be mindful that are possibilities of complications like pain or bleeding. If you experience any severe pain, shortness of breath, or other concerning symptoms, be sure to contact your doctor right away.

Alternatives to Jaw Surgery

There are always alternatives to surgery, and this is true for jaw surgery as well. Some people may be able to get by with a less invasive procedure, such as braces or Invisalign. Others may be able to avoid surgery altogether by making lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or quitting smoking.

If you are considering jaw surgery, be sure to talk to your doctor or orthodontist in White Plains about all your options. They will be able to help you make the best decision for your individual case.

Conclusion

Jaw surgery is a major medical procedure, period. It is very important to understand the risks and benefits of this operation before deciding if it’s right for you. It can be an effective solution for correcting jaw-related issues that cause discomfort or difficulty speaking and eating properly. However, since jaw surgery is a very invasive approach, there is always some degree of risk involved. Be sure to consult with your doctor carefully before proceeding with any type of jaw surgery in order to ensure the best possible outcome.

Contact Dr. Michael Sokoloff’s Orthodontic Clinic for a FREE Consultation

Dr. Michael Sokoloff’s Orthodontic Clinic is located at 20 Old Mamaroneck Rd, Suite C, White Plains, NY. New and current patients can contact the clinic by phone at (914) 690-7358 or by email at info@docsokortho.com.

The clinic offers a variety of services including braces, Invisalign, and jaw surgery. Dr. Sokoloff is a highly experienced orthodontist and has been practicing for over 20 years. He is dedicated to providing his patients with the best possible care and results.

If you are considering jaw surgery, we encourage you to contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sokoloff. During your consultation, he will thoroughly evaluate your case and develop a customized treatment plan to achieve your desired results.

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