Jaw surgery corrects misalignment, breathing problems, and structural abnormalities of the upper and lower jaw. Yuma Sonoma Oral Surgery provides surgical correction of bite problems, sleep apnea, and trauma-related jaw injuries using advanced surgical techniques and anesthesia protocols.
Reviewed by Yuma Sonoma Oral Surgery
Types of Jaw Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is the most common jaw procedure, repositioning the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both to correct bite misalignment and improve facial balance. Patients with severe overbite, underbite, or open bite—conditions that cannot be corrected with orthodontics alone—are candidates for this procedure. Corrective jaw surgery also addresses functional problems: difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking caused by jaw position.
Reconstructive jaw surgery repairs damage from trauma, infection, or tumor removal. Orthognathic procedures typically require 1–3 hours of surgical time, while reconstructive cases vary based on the extent of injury or disease.
Surgical Approach and Anesthesia
Jaw surgery is performed under general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation, ensuring the airway remains protected throughout the procedure. The surgeon makes incisions inside the mouth (intraoral approach) to minimize visible scarring. Bone cuts are made with precision instruments, and the jaw is repositioned and secured with plates, screws, or wires.
Recovery begins immediately after surgery. Patients experience swelling and bruising for 1–2 weeks, with peak swelling occurring around day 3. Most patients return to light activity within 2–3 weeks but avoid strenuous exercise for 4–6 weeks. Bite correction stabilizes over 3–6 months as bone heals and muscles adapt to the new jaw position.
Common Reasons for Jaw Surgery
| Condition |
Typical Symptoms |
Surgical Goal |
| Severe overbite | Upper front teeth overlap lower teeth significantly | Reposition lower jaw forward |
| Severe underbite | Lower jaw extends beyond upper jaw | Reposition lower jaw backward or upper jaw forward |
| Open bite | Front teeth do not meet when mouth is closed | Reposition upper or lower jaw to close gap |
| Sleep apnea | Airway obstruction during sleep, daytime fatigue | Advance lower jaw to open airway |
| Asymmetry | Facial imbalance, uneven jaw growth | Reposition jaw to center midline |
| Trauma | Fractured jaw, misaligned healing | Restore normal bite and jaw function |
What You Can Expect at Yuma Sonoma Oral Surgery
Yuma Sonoma Oral Surgery evaluates jaw surgery candidates with 3D imaging (CBCT scans) and detailed bite analysis to plan precise surgical repositioning. The surgical team coordinates with orthodontists to ensure teeth are properly aligned before and after surgery. Pre-operative consultations include discussion of anesthesia options, recovery timeline, and realistic outcomes for bite correction and facial appearance.
Post-operative care includes detailed instructions for swelling management, dietary modifications, and oral hygiene during healing. Follow-up appointments monitor bone healing, bite stability, and overall recovery progress. Most patients achieve final surgical results within 6–12 months as swelling resolves and bone remodeling completes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does jaw surgery take?
Most orthognathic procedures take 1–3 hours depending on whether one or both jaws require repositioning and the complexity of the case. Reconstructive jaw surgery may take longer if bone grafting or extensive reconstruction is needed.
What is the recovery timeline after jaw surgery?
Swelling peaks around day 3 and gradually decreases over 2–3 weeks. Most patients return to normal diet and activity within 4–6 weeks, though complete bone healing and bite stabilization continue for 3–6 months.
Will I need braces before and after jaw surgery?
Most patients undergo 6–18 months of orthodontic treatment before surgery to align teeth properly, then continue braces for 6–12 months after surgery to finalize bite correction. Your orthodontist and oral surgeon coordinate this timeline.
What are the risks of jaw surgery?
Temporary numbness or altered sensation in the lower lip or chin occurs in some patients and usually resolves within weeks to months. Infection, bleeding, and relapse (partial return to original position) are rare with proper surgical technique and post-operative care. Permanent nerve damage is uncommon.
Can jaw surgery fix sleep apnea?
Yes. Advancing the lower jaw (mandibular advancement) opens the airway and can significantly reduce or eliminate obstructive sleep apnea in appropriate candidates. Success rates are high when the airway obstruction is primarily at the level of the jaw and tongue.
Is jaw surgery covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your plan and whether surgery is deemed medically necessary (for functional problems like sleep apnea or severe bite problems affecting chewing) versus cosmetic. Orthodontic treatment before and after surgery may have separate coverage limits. Contact your insurance provider and the surgical office to verify benefits.
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