People who need double jaw surgery in Singapore may have a moderate to severe overbite, underbite, open bite or cross bite that occurs as a result of poorly aligned jaws. Called skeletal malocclusions, these issues cannot be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone and can lead to poor chewing ability, lisping or slurred speech, breathing issues and dental problems. These conditions can also affect the appearance, creating an overly prominent lower jaw and chin for instance, or causing an individual to be unable to close the mouth naturally. Via double jaw surgery, your Singapore oral and maxillofacial surgeon can correct these functional and aesthetic issues by resizing, reshaping or repositioning the upper and lower jaws as necessary to bring them into proper alignment.
Double jaw surgery is a safe and effective treatment for jaw irregularities and serious complications are uncommon. That said, possible complications include infection, tooth damage, anesthesia reactions and excessive bleeding, as well as nerve damage that can lead to permanent tingling and/or numbness in the face, chin or lips. You can reduce your risk of complications by choosing a Singapore oral surgeon who has extensive experience with these delicate procedures.
Recovery time after double jaw surgery varies from one patient to another, but in general, patients can expect to be largely back to normal after about 6 weeks as initial healing of surgical site occurs and swelling, pain and stiffness gradually subsides. Most patients will experience some tingling and numbness in the face during recovery as well, which typically resolves within 3 to 6 months. Complete healing of the jawbones affected generally takes about 9 to 12 months.
Singapore double jaw surgery patients will be limited to a liquid diet immediately after surgery, generally for a week or two, before progressing on to a soft food diet. Typically, soft foods are recommended throughout the 6 weeks of initial healing, with solid foods added as tolerated after initial healing is complete.
While double jaw surgery is most often done for medical purposes – to correct the functional problems caused by malocclusion – it can have significant cosmetic benefits as well. Individuals who have suffered with significant facial distortion due to moderate to severe malocclusions typically see a dramatic improvement in their appearance once jaws have been properly aligned and positioned. Recessed chins are brought forward, elongated or protruding jaws reduced and patients who were previously unable to close their mouths naturally have that issue resolved. In short, facial harmony is restored, a result that many patients have described as life-changing.
Do you still have questions about double jaw surgery? The best way to get answers about your specific condition, needs and concerns is to make an appointment for a consultation with a Singapore oral and maxillofacial surgeon.