Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)
Reconstructive and Corrective Procedures
Call for an AppointmentJaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) may be an option if you have a severe overbite, underbite, or cross bite. Jaw surgery may also be appropriate to treat teeth misalignment (malocclusion), chronic jaw pain, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis (jaw bones fused in your joint), and jaw problems related to facial trauma, deformity, and disease. Your treatment plan may significantly reduce pain or difficulty with chewing, swallowing, speaking, sleeping, and breathing. It can also improve related problems such as headaches and sleep apnea.
Corrective jaw surgery may successfully treat a protruding jaw (prognathism), severely receded or "weak" chin (retrognathia), or unbalanced facial features. Jaw surgery can result in a more balanced and attractive facial appearance.
Tests
Consultation and Examination
We discuss your reasons for pursuing corrective jaw surgery, your desired outcome and expected results. We conduct a thorough medical history, including your family history, general health status, previous operations, and any medications you may be taking. We examine your features, and take photographs for your medical record. Finally, we recommend a course of treatment that meets your needs. We discuss the potential risks and complications, and your post-operation recovery.
Blood Tests
Pre-surgical testing may require several blood tests to test your liver and kidney function, and to determine if you have any infection, blood disorder, or anemia, that may have gone previously undetected.
Duke Health offers locations throughout the Triangle. Find one near you.
Why Choose Duke
Surgical Expertise in the Mouth, Jaw, and Face
Our plastic and reconstructive surgeons undergo advanced training in surgical procedures of the head, neck, jaws, and face (often referred to as the maxillofacial region). Our expert team includes craniofacial surgeons, oral-maxillofacial surgeons, orthodontists, and dentists.
Respected Surgeons
Our plastic surgeons share their experience by teaching advanced reconstructive techniques to doctors across the country and around the world. Our combined skill and leadership means you work with some of the most knowledgeable and experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeons in the U.S.
Personalized Treatment Recommendations
After an extensive consultation and careful evaluation, we recommend which type of procedure, or combination of procedures, will give you the results you want.
