Jaw Surgery Austin, TX

Do your teeth seem a bit out of alignment? Do you have trouble sleeping because of breathing difficulties? When you smile, do you show less tooth and more gum than you’d like? If these concerns sound familiar, you may be a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, also called jaw correction surgery or an orthognathic operation. Our team at Hill Country Oral Surgery evaluates the structure, function, and appearance of your jaw to create a plan that restores balance and comfort.

Corrective jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is a specialty of oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMS) designed to correct an array of minor and major dental and skeletal irregularities, including the misalignment of jaws and teeth. Jaw surgery can improve functionality, including chewing, speaking, gummy smiles, and breathing difficulties that cause sleep disorders, as well as address aesthetic concerns.

Orthognathic Surgery in Austin, TX

Corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) involves moving the bones of the lower jaw, upper jaw, or both the upper and lower jaws. The jaws may be shortened or lengthened, repositioned up or down, or moved in or out, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing appearance and harmonious bite.

Jaw surgery is needed when teeth and jaws don’t meet correctly. While orthodontics can correct bite problems when they’re caused exclusively by the teeth, if the jaw bones (mandible and maxilla) are not in alignment, then jaw surgery should be considered. Moving the jaws so your teeth meet (occlude) correctly can improve jaw joint function and chewing ability. It can also improve your smile’s appearance, along with your facial aesthetics, gum health, sleep, breathing, and speech.

Orthognathic jaw surgery is a complex, carefully planned procedure that takes into account minute, complicated factors about your bite and the potential effects of jaw surgery on your appearance.  Because of its complexity, we provide a team of specialists that include your orthodontist, oral surgeon, and occasionally your general dentist. Jaw surgery may also include other specialists, such as endodontists and periodontists.

If a patient has uneven jaws and only the issues regarding the teeth are addressed, the patient could suffer from periodontal issues, joint problems, orthodontic movements, and poor facial aesthetics in the future.

Benefits of Jaw Correction Surgery

Corrective jaw surgery can address a variety of issues, including:

• Speech issues
• Difficulty swallowing
• Gummy smiles
• Chronic jaw or jaw joint pain and headaches
• Open bite (gap between the lower and upper teeth when the mouth is closed)
• Facial injury
• Protruding jaw
• Chronic mouth breathing
• Gap between upper and lower lips
• Difficulty chewing or biting food
• Excessive wear of the teeth
• Facial appearance unbalanced from the side or front
• Receding lower jaw and chin
• Sleep apnea

Jaw correction surgery is designed to straighten teeth while orthognathic surgery repositions a misaligned jaw. It’s needed when the jaws don’t meet correctly, and the teeth don’t seem to fit with the jaws. Not only can it improve a patient’s facial appearance, but it can also ensure that the teeth function properly and meet correctly.

Speech Problems

Speech problems can be traumatic, especially for children. Unaligned or misaligned teeth can lead to an underbite, which not only causes aesthetic concerns but can also impede normal speech. When jaw position contributes to phonetic difficulty, corrective jaw surgery may be part of a comprehensive solution.

Gummy Smile

Gummy smiles typically have a negative effect on the aesthetics of a smile. The good news is an oral or maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) can correct a gummy smile with jaw surgery. Gummy smiles may be the result of:

• An atypical upsurge of the teeth. Your teeth may be the proper length but are covered by excessive gum tissue and appear short.
• Your lip may rise higher than normal because the muscle which controls its movement is hyperactive. This issue could expose more of your gum tissue when you smile
• An excessive bulging protrusion of your upper jaw within the gum tissue caused by the progression of your upper jaw development. This bulging may also cause excessive gum appearance when you smile.

The best smiles reveal the least amount of gum exposure possible. The gum tissue noticeable in your smile line should have stable, even shapes which are in accord with the upper lip. This relationship to the upper lip and gum presence is why many people feel their smiles are unattractive and show a reluctance to smile at all.

Oftentimes, patients who show too much gum tissue have related health issues. For example, if the patient’s jaw development and teeth eruption were abnormal, then it’s possible they also have an abnormal and uncomfortable bite. When a gummy smile results from an abnormal bite or jaw position, jaw correction surgery may be recommended to address both appearance and long-term oral health.

Address Breathing Issues, Jaw Pain, and Sleep Apnea in Austin, TX

Millions suffer from breathing problems caused by misaligned jaws, which can narrow the airway and contribute to mouth breathing, fragmented sleep, and pain patterns across the head, neck, shoulders, and back. A properly planned orthognathic operation can reposition the jaws to improve airway support while also reducing strain on joints and muscles.

How Does a Jaw Operation Work?

A jaw operation (orthognathic surgery) uses precise bone cuts inside the mouth to reposition the jaws into a healthier alignment. Common procedures include:

• Maxillary (upper jaw) osteotomy: Repositions the maxilla to correct open bite, gummy smile, crossbite, or midface retrusion; may move the jaw up, down, forward, or back to balance tooth appearance and facial support.
• Mandibular (lower jaw) osteotomy: Advances or sets back the mandible to correct underbite, overbite, or functional shift; improves bite efficiency and jaw-joint comfort.
• Bimaxillary surgery: Combines upper and lower jaw moves for comprehensive correction of skeletal discrepancies and airway concerns.
• Genioplasty (chin surgery): Contours chin position for facial balance; sometimes combined for optimal profile and soft-tissue support.
• Segmental techniques or expansion-assisted approaches: Used selectively to improve arch form or address crowding when orthodontics alone is insufficient.

Working with your orthodontist, we align teeth in each jaw before surgery, then use 3D imaging, bite splints, and rigid fixation (tiny plates and screws) to hold the new position while you heal.

What Happens During an Orthognathic Operation?

On the day of surgery, you will be placed under general anesthesia. Incisions are then made inside the mouth to protect external facial skin. The surgeon makes controlled bone cuts to mobilize the jaw, repositions it according to the surgical plan, and secures the new position with small titanium plates and screws. In most modern cases, the jaws are not wired shut; instead, light elastics may guide bite position during jaw correction surgery healing. Variations of jaw surgery include:

• Maxillary osteotomy: Adjusts vertical height to reduce a gummy smile, advances or sets back the upper jaw, and levels the bite plane.
• Mandibular osteotomy: Advances or sets back the lower jaw to harmonize the bite and reduce joint strain.
• Bimaxillary procedures: Coordinate both jaws for optimal occlusion, facial symmetry, and airway support.
• Adjuncts (e.g., genioplasty): Refine chin projection to enhance balance after jaw movements.

Most patients go home the next day, while some may require a short hospital stay. A soft diet, careful hygiene, and follow-up visits support a smooth recovery.

Jaw Correction Surgery Recovery

Recovery timelines can vary by procedure, age, and health. Many patients take about two weeks away from work or school and swelling can take longer to resolve, while bones typically require several months to fully heal. Expect a soft or no-chew diet at first, gradual activity increase, and routine follow-ups to monitor bite and comfort. Pain and swelling typically peaks in the first few days, then steadily improves while being managed with medications, cold compresses, and head elevation. You’ll want to start with liquids and soft foods while advancing as directed to protect healing bones and hardware. After eating, gently rinsing and carefully brushing around teeth and incisions can help prevent infection.

You may need to wear guiding elastics to train the bite in its new position. Short walks are encouraged, though it is recommended to avoid strenuous exercise until you’re cleared by a qualified physician. Our team will remain available to answer questions, adjust elastics, and coordinate ongoing orthodontic care until your orthognathic operation is fully healed and stable.

Jaw Surgery Consultation and Evaluation

We’re eager to inform our patients about the benefits of orthognathic surgery. Before any procedure begins, you will need to have a consultation for jaw surgery. You’ll have a complete examination using models and X-rays to preview how your bite and facial balance may improve following corrective jaw surgery.

At Hill Country Oral Surgery in Austin, we utilize 3D models and computerized techniques to help explain our treatment approach to patients. Using comprehensive computer images and facial X-rays, we can simulate how the patient will look after jaw surgery and demonstrate how their bite will improve. We use technology to help patients understand the extent of their treatment and the surgical process.

In some cases, we will use medical modeling to help us map out your procedure. This kind of modeling produces highly accurate physical models derived from medical imaging modalities such as MRI and CT.

We use state-of-the-art software to develop a 3D model of your bone structure, as well as advanced computer programs, to precisely plan your jaw surgery procedure.

When it comes to jaw surgery, we work closely with your dentist and orthodontist throughout the consultation, treatment, and recovery process. We feel confident that our team effort and expertise in jaw surgery can help fix a myriad of jaw-related conditions.

Orthodontics and Jaw Surgery in Buda, TX

Corrective jaw surgery requires some orthodontic work because the teeth must be aligned autonomously in both jaws. After jaw surgery, post-surgical orthodontics finish the alignment of the teeth to ensure an optimal bite.

Orthodontics is a crucial part of comprehensive jaw surgery. In the past, patients who had corrective jaw surgery had to have their jaws wired together to hold the bones in place. Today, tiny titanium screws and plates hold the bones in place during recovery so many patients wake up from jaw surgery with normal mouth movement.

For more information about jaw surgery and how it can improve your appearance and correct functional problems, call Hill Country Oral Surgery today at (512) 327-7233

Corrective Jaw Surgery FAQs

What are the complications and risks associated with corrective jaw surgery?

Any surgical procedure has some risk. Patients will often experience a tingling sensation or numbness in the face or mouth while recovering from surgery. This effect is temporary, and the patient’s sensations will return to normal once the swelling subsides. Corrective jaw surgery always changes the contour of the patient’s face, most notably the profile of the chin, lips, and nose. We plan every surgery so that the outcome looks as natural and aesthetically pleasing as possible.

Please explain the benefits of corrective jaw surgery?

Jaw surgery has great benefits. Corrective jaw surgery is often performed to improve a patient’s facial appearance and improve the patient’s bite.  It may alleviate jaw pain, sleep disorders, breathing issues, and difficulties chewing and swallowing. It may also improve a patient’s facial appearance and eliminate a gummy smile.

Will my jaw be wired shut after jaw surgery? What can I expect from jaw surgery recovery?

Because of modern improvements with corrective jaw surgery, patients rarely need to have their jaws wired after surgery. Instead, screws and small plates are utilized to keep your jaw in an optimal position after surgery.

Certain factors, like the type of jaw surgery, your age, and medical history, will determine what your recovery will be like. Many of our patients take two weeks to recover, but for some patients swelling might take a little longer to subside completely. Jaw bones typically require six months to heal, so patients will need to modify their diets for some time. We will monitor your recovery from jaw surgery closely and we will be accessible for any questions or concerns you might have during this time.

Does health insurance cover corrective jaw surgery? What is the cost like with Jaw surgery?

Before your procedure, we will work with you and your insurance company to determine if they cover the procedure and to what extent. We work with patients who don’t have insurance coverage for corrective jaw surgery, and we can help any patients without insurance plan a treatment with us. We offer various financing options to help with your budget. We understand every situation is unique, so, please contact us today to discuss how we can help you achieve your goals.

Do You Need Corrective Jaw Surgery for Your Underbite?

For many Americans, even a slight underbite can seem extremely noticeable. While many patients with this type of malocclusion can address their concerns through braces or other treatments, some individuals with more severe cases may find that corrective jaw surgery is a better long-term solution. Our experienced team of dedicated surgeons makes us the premier choice for Austin oral surgery. Read our blog post or contact us for a consultation to learn more about corrective jaw surgery for an underbite.

What can I eat after jaw surgery?

As you prepare for jaw surgery, planning meals and snacks can be helpful, so you don’t have to think about it during recovery. For a few days following surgery, plan to eat only soft food that doesn’t need to be chewed. While your body heals, you should focus on nutrient-dense foods that will give your body the boost and energy it needs, including soups, smoothies, milk, yogurt, oatmeal, or pureed foods. As your recovery progresses, you can add soft foods that require light chewing. Your oral surgeon will be available throughout your recovery to help you navigate what you can and cannot do to promote healing and protect your results.

What should I avoid after jaw surgery?

After jaw surgery, it is particularly important to avoid chewing hard, sticky, or stringy foods, drinking from a straw (this can dislodge important blood clots), spitting, smoking, or drinking carbonated beverages. Your oral surgeon will provide a detailed list of things to avoid following your surgery to make it simple to protect your health during recovery.

How long does jaw surgery recovery last?

Jaw surgery is considered a major surgery, and you can expect 6 to 12 weeks to make a full recovery. Depending on your surgery, you may be required to stay in the hospital for a few days. Your oral surgeon will ensure you fully understand what you can expect during your recovery before your surgery begins. In general, plan for a few weeks of recovery, rest, medication, and modifications to ensure proper, safe healing.

How do I know I need jaw surgery?

The importance of the jaw functioning properly cannot be understated. Signs that you need jaw surgery range from constant debilitating headaches associated with TMJ disorder, excessive wear on your teeth, difficulty speaking or eating, trouble breathing as a result of sleep apnea, and the list goes on. Your oral, overall, and mental health can be impacted by various conditions that could require corrective jaw surgery, and if your provider has suggested that you could benefit from it, it’s time.

When should I consider jaw surgery?

While there are treatments for the various conditions that lead to jaw surgery, many people eventually decide that corrective jaw surgery is the best option for them. Sometimes, preliminary treatments aren’t sufficient and can’t effectively get to the root cause of the issue. Jaw surgery is a complex, personalized procedure that should be performed by a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon to ensure your health, safety, and long-term success. If other non-surgical options have been insufficient, you should consider surgery.

How long does jaw surgery take?

Depending on the reason for your jaw surgery, you can expect your surgery to last between 1 to 4 hours. During your consultation and treatment planning phase, your Austin oral surgeon will give you a better understanding of what you can expect from your specific surgery.

Am I a candidate for jaw surgery?

After you have been referred to our office, we will schedule a full evaluation including x-rays and a visual exam of your jaw and oral structures. We will assess the root cause of your issue and determine whether corrective jaw surgery in Austin, TX is the best next step for you. Generally, patients who are healthy enough to undergo anesthesia and have chronic jaw pain, severe misalignment, aesthetic concerns, or difficulty breathing are candidates.

Is corrective jaw surgery painful?

During surgery, you will not feel anything since you will be under general anesthesia. You can expect swelling and discomfort for a few days following your surgery, but you will be able to manage this discomfort with prescription and over-the-counter pain medications.