Orthofacial surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery or operative jaw correction, is a specialized procedure aimed at correcting jaw alignment, facial bone anomalies, and facial asymmetry. This surgery significantly impacts both functionality and aesthetics for patients.
The shape and appearance of the face are largely determined by the position of the jaws and teeth. A balanced face, well-matched teeth and a healthy airway for proper breathing contribute to the well-being and self-confidence of individuals. These three aspects are the pillars of orthofacial surgery: The face, the airway and the teeth.
In order to get a good idea of the wishes and problems involved with appearance, teeth and breathing, it is important to take extensive time. Not everyone is personally aware that an abnormal jaw position may be the cause of the problems they experience with their teeth or appearance. Using modern imaging techniques, such as 3D scans of the face and teeth, we first carefully assess the situation. Based on this information, a treatment proposal is drawn up, in which several experts, including the oral surgeon, orthodontist and technical physician, work together.
Working with the end goal in mind, our approach begins with a 3D simulation of the desired outcome prior to treatment so that the patient is fully informed about the treatment and possible outcomes. 3D VSP’s mission is to bring together surgical/medical and technical/scientific expertise for the patient. Using computer simulations, we create digital treatment plans for patients, and with high-accuracy equipment, we create medical devices to perform surgery as accurately as possible.
The treatment plan
Within orthofacial surgery, mainly three different treatments are performed: a lower jaw osteotomy, an upper jaw osteotomy and a kinosteotomy. In addition, many other treatments are possible during the same surgery to achieve the desired result. These include correction of the cheekbones, liposuction, fillers or an alloplastic implant. All these treatments can be planned in advance, and visually visualised in a treatment plan. We share this treatment plan with both the surgeon and the patient, and if desired, it can be made live with the surgeon/patient present.
The surgery
The surgery is performed by a specialised oral surgeon. For details on the precise surgical technique and details such as admission and recovery, please refer to the operating surgeon. To give a rough idea of what happens to the jaws, below are examples of operations we digitally schedule. They clearly show the displacements of the lower jaw, upper jaw and can. During surgery, the surgeon secures these bone parts with a titanium plate. You will not see these plates here, as the exact plate and screws used vary from surgeon to surgeon.
