Salt Lake City Oral Surgery, Facial Surgery | Utah Center for Oral & Facial Surgery

Corrective Jaw surgery or Orthognathic Surgery

What Is Orthognathic Surgery?

It is the surgical correction of growth abnormalities of the upper and/or lower jaw, when jaws don’t meet correctly or teeth seem misfit with jaws. Orthodontics straightens the teeth for the patient and Orthognathic Surgery repositions the jaws in correct alignment. 

Who Needs Orthognathic Surgery?

Those with improper bite or improperly positioned jaws benefit greatly from this surgery. In some instances, through the growth process, the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. That creates a number of problems that effect daily life - even minute by minute. Chewing function. Speech. Appearance. Long-term oral health and sleep apnea. 

While Orthodontics alone can correct bite problems when only the teeth are involved, Dr. Stosich has the expertise required to reposition the jaws. This life changing surgery can correct significant underbites, overbites, open bites and facial imbalance.

How Will It Benefit Me?

1. Alleviates problems with chewing and wear on your teeth. Some patients report that it was amazing to actually bite or chew with the teeth fitting together, since they had never been able to do that before!
2. Corrects speech difficulties. The teeth and jaw have great importance on our ability to form words and speak properly.
3. Reduces sleep apnea.
4. Improves facial imbalances.
5. Gives you added self confidence and increased satisfaction with life!

What Is Recovery Time?

Most patients should plan on a short period of down time consisting of at least 1 week, and six weeks without strenuous physical activity. However, mild activity can be  resumed two to three weeks after surgery. Healing is unique for each individual.

Is This Surgery performed in a Hospital?

This procedure can be performed in Dr. Stosich’s state of the art surgical suite or in an operating room of the hospital. It may include an overnight stay.

How Do I Prepare for This Surgery?

The process begins with an valuation from your orthodontist. Once your orthodontist has determined you would benefit from orthognathic surgery, a consultation with Dr. Stosich can occur. Your orthodontist will then begin orthodontic therapy with braces. During this time you may be asked to follow up with Dr. Stosich for an occasional checkup. Eventually your orthodontist will recommend the surgery be performed. Following the surgery, braces will most likely be required for several months to make any last correction.

Is Orthognathic Surgery a Benefit of My Insurance?

Many insurance plans cover this surgery. After a consultation with Dr. Stosich, our office staff will check with your insurance company to determine your insurance benefit. We take pride in knowing we can help you get coverage for your procedure, and we work tirelessly with insurance carriers for you.

What Are My Options if I Do Not Have Insurance Coverage for Orthognathic Surgery?

Significant costs that are normally acquired during a hospital stay can be eliminated by having the surgery performed in Dr. Stosich’s operating suite. The actual cost of surgery is often similar, or slightly more than what you would pay for the treatment of braces. We can also supply you with several options for financing if needed.

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