Orthognathic Surgeries: Procedure, Recovery and Cost

Orthognathic Surgeries cost between 150,000 PKR and 250,000 PKR. The fee for specialists of Orthognathic Surgeon in Pakistan varies from PKR 1000-3000 depending upon the doctor's experience and clinic location.

Some of the reported diagnosis that may lead to orthognathic surgeries in people include:

• Problems with swallowing or speech.

• Jaw closure issues

• Cleft palate

• Facial imbalance (asymmetry)

• Overbites and crossbites

• Excessive wear and breakdown of the teeth

• Significant skeletal abnormalities with dental malocclusion

What is the procedure for Orthognathic Surgeries? 

The procedure for three types of orthognathic surgeries involves the following steps:

Procedure for Maxillary Osteotomy (Upper Jaw):

• During the operation, the dentist cuts the bone above the upper teeth. It will help move your upper teeth and palate as a unit. 

• The dentist moves the upper teeth and jaw forward to engage the lower teeth. 

• This step can also be monitored on a computer to correct gaps between the jaws. 

• After alignment, screws and plates are used to secure the bones in their new position.

• The entire surgery is performed under anesthesia so the patient is comfortable.

Procedure for Mandibular Osteotomy (Lower Jaw):

• Mandibular osteotomy is performed if the lower jaw is retracted. During this procedure, the dentist cuts longitudinally through the jawbone and the area behind the molars. 

• After cutting, the jaws start to move as a unit. The dentist repositions the jaw and secures the new position with screws.

Procedure for Genioplasty (Chin Surgery)

• Short chin surgery can treat small chins and retracted lower jaws. During this procedure, the maxillofacial surgeon cuts off a small piece of the jawbone and moves it to a new location.

•  After relocation, the new position is fixed with screws and plates. The incision may be closed with stitches.

What are the risks and complications associated with Orthognathic Surgeries? 

The reported risks and complications related to orthognathic surgeries include;

• Relapse 

• Neurologic injury

• Neuropathic pain

• Changes in nasal morphology 

• Temporomandibular disorder

• Necrosis of the bony segment

• Delayed union or nonunion of the osteotomy site. 

• Chances of Infection

What to expect after Orthognathic Surgeries? 

Patients may expect after the surgery:

• During the first 24-48 hours, there will be slight bleeding and oozing from the surgical site.

• A mild sore throat develops in the endotracheal tube. 

• Numbness in the lower lip, jaw, cheeks, tongue, teeth (in case of lower jaw surgery) and upper lip, cheeks, nose, and teeth (in case of upper jaw surgery).

• Sensation usually returns slowly over 7 to 9 months. 

• Do not do any facial or physical exercise.

• Dentists advise to follow good hygiene practices to prevent infection.

• If you feel any pain, then eat the prescribed medicine