Mandibular Osteotomy

What is a Mandibular Osteotomy?

A mandibular osteotomy, often referred to as lower jaw surgery, is a precise procedure performed by our Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon to correct significant imbalances in the size or position of your lower jaw. Unlike routine orthodontic treatment that moves teeth, this surgery changes the actual position of the jawbone itself. The goal is to move the lower jaw forward or backward, or to rotate it, so that it fits correctly with your upper jaw. This surgery helps severe underbites, overbites, and jaw misalignment, it leads to better dental occlusion, relief from jaw pain, and significantly improves the balance and appearance of your facial profile.

The Mandibular Osteotomy Procedure

The surgery is performed in a hospital setting under a general anaesthetic, meaning you will be completely asleep.

• No external scars: The procedure is almost entirely carried out from inside your mouth. Our surgeon makes a cut through the gum behind your back teeth to access the jawbone.
• Repositioning the bone: A small saw is used to carefully cut the lower jawbone in a controlled manner. Once separated, the jaw is moved into its new, pre-planned position.
• Securing the new position: The repositioned jaw is held firmly in place using small, lightweight titanium plates and screws, which are usually left permanently in the bone.
• Closure: The gum incisions are closed using stitches that dissolve on their own over a couple of weeks. You will usually stay over for one to three nights.

Recovery & Aftercare

Recovery from jaw surgery requires patience, but most people are surprised to find it is not as painful as they anticipate.

• Initial period (First few days): You will experience facial swelling (which peaks around day 2-3), stiffness, and some initial numbness or tingling in your bottom lip, similar to the feeling after a dental injection. Regular painkillers will be provided, and using cold compresses and sleeping propped up can help reduce swelling.
• Diet: You must follow a strictly liquid or pureed diet for the first two to four weeks, as you must avoid chewing to allow the bones to heal. You will gradually progress to soft, mushy foods and eventually return to a normal diet after about 6-8 weeks.
• Oral hygiene: It is crucial to keep your mouth very clean. You will be advised to use a very soft toothbrush and a prescribed antiseptic mouthwash (like Corsodyl) to prevent infection.
• Time off: Most patients need to take two to four weeks off work or school to recover fully. You will have follow-up appointments with both your surgeon and your orthodontist (who will use small elastic bands on your braces to fine-tune your new bite). The final subtle swelling may take several months to completely disappear.