Maxillofacial Surgery

When facial reconstruction, including procedures involving the oral cavity, is called for, a specialist is needed. Surgical procedures of the neck and head areas are performed by a maxillofacial surgeon.

Jaw Correction

A protruding chin, large lower jaw, upper jaw much further forward or much narrower than a normal- sized lower jaw, are problems that are good candidates for maxillofacial surgery.

In some people, jaws do not grow at the same rate; one may be larger than the other, or simply not be aligned properly with other bony structures in the skull. This can cause problems other than appearance issues. An improperly aligned jaw can cause problems with the tongue and lips, as well as chewing problems. Jaw surgery can move jaws into the proper place.

Other kinds of problems involve other upper facial features such as the nose and cheek.

In addition to surgical correction, orthodontic appliances such as braces may be needed to restore bite and proper alignment of the jaw. In some cases, tiny wires or small rubber bands may be used to promote faster healing. In other cases, small ‘fixation’ screws are inserted in the jaws to facilitate easy movement of the jaws following surgery.