Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery in Manhattan, NYC
Who needs Orthognathic surgery?
Due to advancement in orthodontics (with mini-screws), what used to be a surgical case a decade ago may be treated non-surgically. However, for patients with severe skeletal problems, such as those shown above, orthognathic surgery (jaw surgery) may be not only necessary but also beneficial for the patient’s healthy.
When mild skeletal problem is treated only with orthodontic treatment without surgery, it is the teeth movement that compensates for the skeletal discrepancy in the jaws. It may be harmful for the teeth and the supporting tissues in the long run, if teeth are moved too much beyond the envelope of their skeletal housings, which are the jaws. Therefore, a well-trained orthodontist’s correct diagnosis is crucial in determining whether the skeletal problem can be solved with orthodontic treatment only or orthognathic surgery is needed.
It is understandable that a lot of patients want to avoid orthognathic surgery, but remember that solving severe skeletal problem with only teeth movement without surgery may not be the best for the health of the teeth, jaws, and supporting bones and gums in the long run.
Orthodontic treatment Before & After jaw surgery
Both braces and Invisalign may work for surgical cases, depending on the case.
In most surgical orthodontic patients, patients undergo pre-surgical orthodontic treatment for few months, undergo jaw surgery, and then continue with orthodontic treatment after the surgery for another few months.
In some rare cases where most of the problem is in the jaw(s) and not in the teeth alignment, surgery-first approach may be utilized in order to achieve the major improvement at the start of the process.
timeline for getting jaw surgery
1
Initial consultation with Orthodontist
(30-60 minutes)
2
Initial consultation with Oral Surgeon
(30-60 minutes)
3
Initial records
(30-60 minutes)
- X-rays: 2D and 3D
- Photographs
- 3D scan of your teeth
4
Discuss tx options & start braces/Invisalign
(60 minutes)
- Treatment plan devised by both Orthodontist & Oral Surgeon is discussed
- Braces placed or Invisalign started
- Referral made for extractions if needed
5
Pre-surgical orthodontic treatment
(12-18 months)
- Regular visits every 6-8 weeks (20-minute adjustment)
- Duration differs by difficulty of cases, whether extraction is needed, and so on.
6
Oral Surgery visit 1-2 months before surgery
(60 minutes)
- Pre-surgical records will be taken with oral surgeon for surgical planning
- Will be discussed with orthodontist and patient
7
Orthognathic Surgery
(3-5 hours)
- If two jaw surgery, jaws will be splinted together for ~4 weeks
- Liquid diet for few weeks
8
Post-surgical orthodontic treatment
(~12 months)
- Regular visits every 6-8 weeks (20-minute adjustment)
9
Retainer check every 3-6 months
- Retainers must be worn full-time for first 4 months
- Then every night afterwards
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthognathic Surgery at SmileWorks NYC
What is surgical orthodontic treatment?
Surgical orthodontic treatment, also called orthognathic surgery, combines orthodontics with corrective jaw surgery to treat severe bite problems and jaw misalignments that cannot be corrected with braces or Invisalign alone. At SmileWorks NYC, Dr. Jin Sup Shin works closely with oral surgeons to coordinate comprehensive treatment that addresses both skeletal jaw discrepancies and dental alignment. A bad bite called a “malocclusion” happens when teeth meet improperly or don’t meet at all, and when the underlying skeletal problem is too severe for orthodontics alone, surgical intervention becomes necessary to achieve optimal function and aesthetics.
Will I need my jaws wired shut after surgery?
Modern surgical techniques rarely require traditional jaw wiring. Instead, surgeons typically use small titanium plates and screws to hold the jaws in their new position, allowing for some mouth opening and a liquid/soft diet. However, you may have elastic bands connecting your upper and lower teeth for the first few weeks to help guide healing. At SmileWorks, we coordinate with surgeons who use the most advanced techniques to minimize post-operative restrictions while ensuring proper healing and stability.
What are the risks and complications of surgical orthodontics?
While orthognathic surgery is generally safe, potential risks include temporary numbness of the lip or chin (which usually resolves), infection, bleeding, and rare complications like jaw joint problems or need for additional surgery. The complication rate is approximately 5-10% for minor issues and less than 1% for major complications. At SmileWorks NYC, we work only with experienced oral surgeons who use advanced surgical techniques and provide comprehensive pre-operative planning using 3D imaging to minimize risks and optimize outcomes.
How much does surgical orthodontic treatment cost in NYC?
The total cost varies significantly depending on the complexity of your case, typically ranging from $20,000-$40,000 for the complete treatment including orthodontics and surgery. Many medical insurance plans cover orthognathic surgery when it’s deemed medically necessary for functional problems, breathing issues, or significant jaw discrepancies. Orthodontic insurance may cover the braces portion of treatment. At SmileWorks, we’ll help verify your benefits and work with both your medical and dental insurance to maximize coverage and provide detailed cost estimates.
Will surgical orthodontics change my facial appearance?
Yes, correcting severe jaw discrepancies typically results in significant improvements to facial balance and aesthetics. The changes can enhance your profile, correct facial asymmetry, and create better lip support and facial proportions. At SmileWorks Manhattan, we use advanced 3D treatment planning to show you predicted outcomes before treatment begins. While the primary goal is to improve function, most patients are very pleased with the aesthetic improvements that result from bringing their jaws into proper alignment.
Can I have braces or Invisalign during surgical treatment?
Traditional braces are typically used during surgical orthodontic treatment because they provide the precise control needed for pre-surgical tooth positioning and post-surgical refinement. Invisalign is generally not suitable for surgical cases due to the complexity of tooth movements required. At SmileWorks NYC, Dr. Shin uses the most advanced bracket systems and wires to make the orthodontic phase as comfortable and efficient as possible while achieving the precise positioning needed for surgical success.
How do I know if I need surgical orthodontics?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Shin at SmileWorks NYC for a comprehensive evaluation using our advanced 3D imaging technology. During this assessment, we’ll analyze your jaw relationships, bite function, facial aesthetics, and overall oral health to determine if surgical orthodontics is appropriate for your case. We’ll also discuss all treatment options, including non-surgical alternatives, and help you understand the benefits and limitations of each approach. If surgical treatment is recommended, we’ll connect you with experienced oral surgeons and coordinate your entire treatment plan for optimal results.
