Orthognathic Surgery

What is Orthognathic Surgery?

The shape of the face depends on the architectural framework of the skeleton. When it goes in irregular manner then it falls in orthognathic problems. In dental science the word “orthognathic” is developed from two words ortho which means straighten and gnathic means jaws (skeletal bones). It is a Greek word. Orthognathic surgery is also popular with the term oral and maxillofacial surgery. Sometimes it is also called as cosmetic surgery. Hence due to its term it can be understand that orthognathic surgery is the surgery of jaws and face in the oral cavity.

Procedure

Before surgery, a consultation and full set of x-rays are recommended by an experienced Oral Surgeon. Dr. Vecchione will evaluate your current situation and inform you if you are a candidate for Orthognathic Surgery and what type of surgery will be performed. All the risks, including healing time and what to expect will be covered during the initial consultation.

Distraction Osteogenesis

Distraction osteogenesis is a technique in orthognathic surgery used to expand or stretch bone in the jaw. Bone is a tissue in which minerals are constantly added and removed. Doctors and scientists have found that bone mass decreases when it is compressed, and increases when it is stretched. Distraction Osteogenesis can be used to correct badly healed fractures, including jaw bone deformities caused by congenital or development factors, trauma, or disease, including cancer.

Procedure

The surgery for jaw deformity is performed by splitting the jaw bone and moving the bone to the appropriate position to recover the occlusal function as well as esthetics. With distraction osteogenesis, jaw bone is lengthened by setting a distractor during the surgery. The soft bone tissue is gradually moved into the proper position.

Some of the benefits of distraction osteogenesis are safety, quicker healing times, no scars on the outer portion of your face, and the process can work on patients of all ages.