Jaw surgery

Orthognathic surgery is a procedure used to correct major jaw problems such as severe overbites, underbites, facial asymmetries or other aesthetic and functional concerns. It's important to understand, that to undergo orthognathic surgery, jaw growth needs to be complete. This is usually at least 16 years of age for females and 18 - or, sometimes even older - for males.

Orthognathic surgery is a multi-disciplinary approach, Dr Leedham and an Oral and Maxillo-Facial Surgeon work together to plan the procedure, ensuring optimum results. Braces are usually required for at least 12 months to ensure teeth are in their ideal position. Thereafter, the surgery is performed by the Oral and Maxillo-Facial surgeon in hospital.

Typically a two-week recovery period is required after the surgery, and we recommend scheduling time off from work or school to ensure smooth healing. Once healed, braces will again be used to fine tune the bit, these can usually be removed after 4 to 6 months.