Surgery for the Jaw: Types, Procedure, Risks, and Recovery

Feeling like jaw movement affects eating, breathing, or speaking can be deeply frustrating. At Michael Sokoloff Orthodontics, there is an understanding that jaw issues affect health and confidence. A jaw surgery procedure often offers a lasting solution by aligning the bite and enhancing facial harmony. This post describes the main surgery types, what happens during the procedure, possible risks, and the recovery stage, step by step, so that patients feel supported and aware.

Types of Jaw Surgery

Corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is used to fix jaw misalignment that braces alone may not be able to correct. Available procedures include:

• Upper jaw surgery (Maxillary Osteotomy): This procedure, often called Le Fort I osteotomy, repositions the upper jaw (maxilla) to fix crossbite, open bite, or airway issues to support breathing and chewing. 
• Lower jaw surgery (Mandibular Osteotomy): Involves cutting and moving the lower jaw (mandible) to correct overbite or underbite for improved jaw alignment. 
• Double jaw surgery (Maxillomandibular Advancement): Both upper and lower jaws are repositioned in one session to treat severe misalignment or facial asymmetry. 
• Chin surgery (Genioplasty): Reshapes the chin for better facial balance; it can be combined with other jaw procedures or done alone. 
• TMJ surgery: Used for temporomandibular joint disorders that cause pain or limited jaw movement; options range from arthroscopy to joint reconstruction. 

What Happens During the Jaw Surgery Procedure

Proper planning makes a jaw surgery precise. Before surgery, there are:

• Digital scans, CT imaging, and 3D models to plan jaw movement 
• Creation of surgical splints and titanium plates based on the simulation 

Braces are often used before surgery to align teeth into the correct position. Surgery is performed under general anesthesia inside the mouth to avoid visible scars. Bone segments are repositioned and secured with plates or screws. Patients usually stay in the hospital one to two nights, depending on the procedure complexity.

Possible Risks

Even with expert care, a jaw surgery has some risks:

• Bleeding, infection, and reactions to anesthesia are similar to major surgery 
• Facial swelling and bruising are common in the early days. 
• Temporary numbness of the lip, chin, or gums from nerve manipulation typically resolves within three months but may be permanent. 

Recovery Timeline

Recovery from a jaw surgery is gradual and steady:

• The early healing phase usually lasts 2 to 6 weeks, during which a soft diet and limited jaw movement help support bone healing 
• Secondary healing, such as bone remodeling, continues for 2 to 4 more months, and full recovery may take 6 to 12 months. 

Typical recovery guidelines:

• Hospital stay is usually 1 or 2 nights 
• Soft or puréed diet for several weeks to avoid stress on healing bones 
• Light activity can begin about a week post‑surgery, and return to full work or school around 4 to 6 weeks, depending on procedure severity. 
• Follow-up visits are key to monitoring healing and ensuring a successful outcome. 

Benefits of the Procedure

Opting for a jaw surgery offers several life‑improving outcomes:

• Improved bite function makes chewing, swallowing, and speaking easier 
• Facial symmetry and alignment often enhance appearance and boost self-confidence. 
• Relief from TMJ pain or breathing problems by widening the airway in some cases 
• High success rates reported around 83% – 100% in well‑selected patients. 

At Michael Sokoloff Orthodontics

Michael Sokoloff Orthodontics works in close coordination with experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons to plan and manage a jaw surgery tailored to individual patient needs. Before surgery, orthodontic care aligns teeth and imaging guides the precise repositioning of the jaw. After surgery, nutrition, hygiene, pain control, and follow‑up visits support a smooth recovery.

This integrated care helps restore proper bite, improve facial balance, and renew quality of life for patients dealing with misalignment, TMJ issues, or breathing challenges. Trust is placed in compassionate expertise to guide each step from planning to full healing.

Proper Home Care Tips

Following discharge, it is essential to support healing with proper habits:

• Keep your head elevated and apply ice packs in intervals to reduce swelling 
• Follow all medication and antibiotic instructions closely. 
• Stick to a soft or liquid diet and maintain oral hygiene with gentle rinses. 
• Attend all scheduled follow‑ups to track bone healing and jaw recovery.

Start Your Jaw Surgery Journey with Michael Sokoloff Orthodontics

If you are considering jaw surgery or want to learn more about your options, we encourage you to reach out. At Michael Sokoloff Orthodontics, our team is here to guide you through every step, from consultation to recovery.

Whether you are experiencing bite issues, jaw discomfort, or TMJ-related symptoms, we are ready to help you explore the treatment that’s right for you.

Contact us to schedule your free consultation by calling our friendly team

Take the next step toward comfort, balance, and a confident smile. Your journey begins with a simple conversation – contact us today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes the need for jaw surgery?

Jaw surgery is needed when braces alone cannot align the jaw bones due to structural differences, bite problems, or facial asymmetry. It is often used to treat Class II or Class III malocclusion, TMJ disorders, or breathing difficulties.

How long does surgery take, and how long is healing?

Single jaw surgery typically takes about two to three hours; double jaw surgeries take longer. Full recovery may take several months to a year, with most bone healing in about six months.

Will braces be needed before and after surgery?

Yes, braces are typically used before surgery to align teeth and after surgery to fine-tune the bite. Orthodontic treatment often continues for several months to complete adjustments.

What can be expected in terms of pain and swelling?

Some level of swelling and discomfort is normal after surgery and peaks within the first few days. Pain is managed with prescription medication and starts to diminish after about a week.

Is jaw surgery risky for older patients?

Older patients can still be good candidates if overall health is stable and bone quality is good. Risk levels are similar to younger patients, but healing may progress more slowly.