Surgical Correction of Jaw Asymmetry If you suffer from a misaligned jaw or noticeable facial asymmetry, corrective surgery may offer the long-term solution you've been searching for. At Oral Surgery Specialists of Austin, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of jaw imbalance, helping patients regain comfort, function, and facial harmony through advanced jaw asymmetry correction procedures.What Is Jaw Asymmetry and Why Surgical Correction May Be NeededJaw asymmetry is a structural imbalance where one side of the jaw does not align properly with the other, resulting in both functional and cosmetic concerns. This condition may be present from birth or develop over time. Common causes include:
Symptoms range from mild facial imbalance to serious functional issues:
While some cases respond well to orthodontics, surgical correction becomes necessary when bone alignment cannot be corrected with braces alone. Left untreated, severe jaw misalignment can worsen over time, affecting both appearance and oral health. What Is Surgical Correction of Jaw Asymmetry?Also known as orthognathic surgery, the surgical correction of jaw asymmetry involves repositioning one or both jaws to improve alignment, restore function, and enhance facial symmetry. This surgical approach aims to:
Depending on your specific condition, the procedure may involve:
In some cases, the surgery is considered cosmetic. However, if functional problems are present, it may be medically necessary and covered partially by insurance. Who Is a Good Candidate for Corrective Jaw Surgery?Jaw surgery is typically recommended for patients whose jaw alignment issues cannot be resolved through orthodontics alone. Ideal candidates include those with:
Requirements typically include:
Our dental team coordinates closely with orthodontists and surgeons to provide customized treatment plans for each patient. The Surgical Process: What to ExpectUnderstanding the full process of jaw realignment surgery helps reduce uncertainty and prepare you for a successful outcome.
Common procedures may include:
While the surgery is generally safe, risks include swelling, nerve sensitivity, infection, or relapse of jaw position. Your surgeon will discuss all precautions beforehand. Recovery Timeline and AftercareRecovery from jaw asymmetry surgery involves several stages. Being informed helps patients follow care instructions and avoid complications. Typical recovery includes:
Total healing may take several months. Braces are often continued after surgery to finalize bite alignment. Long-term results are typically stable, but follow-up is essential to ensure proper healing. Functional and Cosmetic Benefits of Jaw SurgeryCorrective jaw realignment surgery offers significant improvements for both function and appearance. Patients report a better quality of life after undergoing this procedure.
While individual results vary, many patients experience life-changing improvements both physically and emotionally. Costs and Insurance ConsiderationsThe cost of jaw asymmetry correction depends on several factors, including:
In many cases, jaw surgery is medically necessary and may qualify for partial or full insurance coverage. Cosmetic-only procedures are typically not covered. Our team will help assess your benefits and provide documentation for insurance review. Why Choose Our Experts for Surgical Jaw CorrectionAt Oral Surgery Specialists of Austin, we are committed to delivering exceptional outcomes through our experience and collaborative approach to orthognathic surgery.
Every treatment plan is personalized to your anatomy, goals, and timeline, ensuring the highest standard of care. Schedule a ConsultationIf you’re experiencing jaw pain, difficulty chewing, or visible facial asymmetry, take the next step toward lasting relief and balance. Schedule a personalized consultation with our surgical team at Oral Surgery Specialists of Austin. Call (512) 547-6852 to learn more about your condition and how corrective jaw surgery could transform your function, comfort, and appearance. FAQsIs corrective jaw surgery painful?Most patients experience discomfort and swelling after surgery, but pain is manageable with prescribed medications. General anesthesia ensures the procedure itself is pain-free. How long is recovery from jaw asymmetry surgery?Initial recovery lasts about 2–4 weeks, during which swelling and dietary restrictions are common. Full healing and final bite alignment can take several months, especially if braces are involved. Is jaw asymmetry surgery covered by insurance?If the procedure is deemed medically necessary—due to functional problems like difficulty chewing or chronic pain—many insurance plans will provide partial or full coverage. Cosmetic-only surgeries are typically not covered. Can jaw surgery fix my facial asymmetry completely?While no surgery guarantees perfection, corrective jaw surgery can significantly improve facial symmetry by aligning skeletal structures, balancing proportions, and enhancing overall appearance. |
