What is Double Jaw Surgery? All the Details!

The question, “What is double jaw surgery?” is often asked by many people with functional or aesthetic issues in their mouth and jaw structure. Double jaw surgery refers to a surgical intervention performed on both the upper and lower jaws to correct jaw function.

After the surgery, the function of the jaw is improved, and an enhanced aesthetic appearance is provided to the patient.

In this article, we explain everything you need to know about the double jaw surgery process!

What is Double Jaw Surgery?

Let’s first answer the question of what double jaw surgery is in detail!

For the jaw to function properly, the teeth, soft tissues, and jaw need to be correctly positioned. In some people, these structures may be misaligned due to genetic or traumatic reasons.

Differences in the mouth and jaw structure can lead to functional loss in the jaw. Additionally, misalignment issues can cause an undesirable appearance in the face.

These conditions can be corrected through various dental treatments, one of which is double jaw surgery, intended to eliminate abnormalities in the mouth and jaw structure.

Jaw surgery is a surgical procedure conducted to correct positioning in the mouth and teeth. During surgery, the jaw bones and teeth are positioned to align anatomically, aiming to suit the patient’s face and oral structure.

After clarifying what double jaw surgery is, let’s look at who it can be applied to!

Who is Double Jaw Surgery For?

We discussed the purpose of double jaw surgery; now, let’s talk about who undergoes this surgery and under what circumstances!

Surgery is a serious treatment with a lengthy recovery process, so it is not the first choice. If the patient has problems with bone and teeth structure, other treatment methods are tried first.

Double jaw surgery is applied in the following situations:

• In cases of single-sided jaw dislocation, the jawbone is repositioned. If the problem recurs several times, surgery is considered. Additionally, orthodontic treatments are commonly preferred.
• Orthodontic treatments may take a long time and do not always yield the desired results, so surgery might be chosen. If the patient has significant issues with functions like speech, breathing, and eating, surgery may be preferred.

Note: A detailed examination by a doctor is necessary before the surgery.

Now that we have answered what double jaw surgery is, let’s examine the surgery process!

How is Double Jaw Surgery Performed?

Many wonder how double jaw surgery is performed. Let’s break down this process step by step!

The double jaw surgery procedure is as follows:

1. The first stage involves evaluating the patient’s condition. Detailed examinations are done in the jaw surgery department using various imaging techniques. Suitability is determined, and if an alternative treatment is available, it is preferred over surgery initially.
2. Once the patient is deemed suitable for treatment, the planning phase begins. Since each patient has a unique mouth, teeth, and face structure, the surgery is customized accordingly.
3. At the beginning of the surgery, general anesthesia is administered. The patient feels no pain throughout the process.
4. Incisions are made either inside the mouth or under the jaw, depending on the situation, and plates, wires, or screws are used to reposition the jawbone.
5. During the recovery process, the patient must support treatment through regular care and check-ups.

This is the general process, but steps may vary depending on each patient's condition.

Let’s answer another frequently asked question in our article! Is double jaw surgery risky?

Is Double Jaw Surgery Risky?

As with any surgery, double jaw surgery comes with risks, though the likelihood of these risks occurring is low. The experience of the doctor, the reliability of the facility, and the patient’s careful attention during the process are crucial for minimizing risks.

The risks of double jaw surgery include:

• Complications due to general anesthesia,
• Severe bleeding,
• Infection,
• Nerve damage,
• Speech issues,
• Swallowing problems,
• Jaw joint issues.

These risks are based on general observations and may vary from patient to patient.

Swelling, bruising, and numbness in the face are common post-surgery. These issues will resolve over time during recovery. The patient’s approach during recovery is crucial.

Let’s answer how long double jaw surgery takes to heal!

How Long Does It Take to Recover from Double Jaw Surgery?

Double jaw surgery is a detailed surgical procedure, and the healing phase varies depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient.

So, how long does it take to recover from double jaw surgery? Although it’s difficult to provide a definite answer, the general recovery period is 4-8 weeks.

By following the instructions given by your doctor after surgery, you can speed up the process and make it easier.

Things to Consider After Double Jaw Surgery

We have examined what double jaw surgery is in detail. Now, let’s look at what patients should pay attention to after this surgery!

Things to consider after double jaw surgery include:

• After jaw surgery, your doctor may advise you to follow a liquid diet. Avoid solid foods during this period and continue with liquids until advised otherwise.
• When transitioning from a liquid diet, move to pureed foods first, then to soft-textured foods, and finally to regular foods under your doctor’s supervision.
• Pain, bruising, and swelling in your face may occur during recovery. Do not panic and only use medications recommended by your doctor.
• For the first few weeks after surgery, pay attention to the height and position of your pillows. High pillows are recommended, as keeping the head elevated helps reduce swelling.
• During this time, you should be extra mindful of oral hygiene and carefully use the rinses and solutions prescribed by your doctor.

Will My Speech Change After Double Jaw Surgery?

Double jaw surgery is a serious treatment, so some speech changes may occur immediately after surgery. Temporary lisping, hoarseness, and difficulty with certain sounds are normal. These are temporary and should return to normal after the recovery process.

Since the general recovery process is 4-8 weeks, your speech should return to normal by the end of this period. If your speech does not improve as expected, consult your doctor.

What is the Difference Between Single Jaw and Double Jaw Surgery?

Single jaw surgeries address issues in only the upper or lower jaw. In double jaw surgeries, both the upper and lower jaws are treated.

You can also check out our other article for information on jaw asymmetry!

Click Here: "Jaw Misalignment | Causes and Treatment"

Is Double Jaw Surgery Painful?

During surgery, the patient is under general anesthesia, so no pain is felt. During recovery, moderate pain may occur, which can be managed with pain relievers recommended by the doctor.

How Long Does Double Jaw Surgery Take?

The duration of the surgery varies from patient to patient. The patient’s condition, the doctor’s experience, and the procedure directly impact the duration. Generally, it takes between 4-6 hours.

Contact Us!

We have covered what double jaw surgery is in detail. For more information on oral and dental health, you can read our other articles or contact us with any questions!

If you have any oral or dental issues, or if you simply want a check-up, you can visit our clinic for a free initial examination and receive support from our expert doctors.

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