Double Jaw Surgery
Double jaw surgery, also known as bimaxillary osteotomy or orthognathic surgery, is an increasingly popular procedure in South Korea. This complex surgery addresses both functional and aesthetic concerns by realigning the upper and lower jaws.
What is Double Jaw Surgery?
Double jaw surgery, also referred to as two jaw surgery, is a type of jaw alignment surgery performed to correct severe jaw discrepancies, such as misalignment, overbites, underbites, and facial asymmetry. Unlike single jaw surgery, double jaw surgery involves the repositioning of both the upper jaw (maxilla) and the lower jaw (mandible) to achieve a more balanced facial profile and improved functionality.
Due to the country’s advanced medical technology, experienced surgeons, and cost-effectiveness, many international patients consider Korea the top destination for double jaw surgery.
Surgery Duration
2 hours
General anesthesia
2 - 3 days
2 weeks
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Double Jaw Surgery?
Double jaw surgery is suitable for individuals with the following conditions:
- Jaw Misalignment: Deep overbite, underbite, open bite, or asymmetric jaws.
- Facial Asymmetry: Disproportionate chin size, uneven jawline, or a gummy smile.
- Functional Difficulties: Challenges with biting, chewing, swallowing, or speaking due to jaw issues.
- Severe TMJ Disorders: Jaw pain, stiffness, clicking, or chewing difficulties.
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Cases where maxillomandibular advancement surgery is needed to improve airway space.
What Benefits Can I Expect from Double Jaw Surgery?
Opting for double jaw surgery offers several key benefits if you want to improve both the function and appearance of your jaws and overall facial profile:
Improved Chewing and Speaking
Corrects jaw alignment issues, such as overbites and underbites, enabling more efficient chewing and clearer speech.
Better Breathing
Addresses obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by repositioning the jaws to open up the airway, reducing snoring and improving sleep quality.
Balanced Facial Proportions
Achieves a more harmonious facial appearance by correcting asymmetries and aligning the jaws properly.
Refined Jawline
Defines and reshapes the jawline, creating a more aesthetically pleasing profile.
Youthful Appearance
Reduces a protruding or receding chin and improves overall facial aesthetics, leading to a younger, more attractive look.
Minimized Gummy Smile
Elevates the upper jaw to decrease excessive gum exposure when smiling, enhancing smile aesthetics.
How is Double Jaw Surgery Done in Korea?
The surgery typically involves the following steps:
- Incisions: Made inside the mouth to prevent visible scars.
- Jaw Modification: Repositioning of the upper and lower jaws using osteotomy techniques.
- Stabilization: The repositioned jaws are secured with titanium plates and screws. Elastic bands or wires may be used to maintain jaw stability.
Types of Double Jaw Surgery Procedures
There are several surgical techniques used for double jaw surgery, each tailored to address specific conditions:
Sagittal Split Ramus Osteotomy (SSRO)
Cuts the back of the lower jaw diagonally into two thin plates, repositioning the jaw to the desired alignment.
Key Benefit:
- More stable healing due to larger contact surfaces; less need for external fixation; quick recovery.
Intraoral Vertical Ramus Osteotomy (IVRO)
Cuts the back of the lower jaw vertically, relying on natural healing without the use of fixation devices.
Key Benefit:
- Less risk of nerve damage; avoids hardware placement; allows for more natural jaw movement post-surgery.
LeFort I Osteotomy
Used to reposition the upper jaw; involves cutting the upper jaw to correct height, width, and depth discrepancies.
Key Benefit:
- Effective for correcting a gummy smile, open bite, and other vertical maxillary excess problems; enhances upper jaw alignment with lower jaw and teeth.
Preparation for Double Jaw Surgery
Pre-Surgical Consultations and Assessments
Before undergoing surgery, patients are required to go through detailed consultations with both an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. This involves:
- Imaging (3D-CT, X-rays): To understand the current jaw structure.
- Dental Impressions: To evaluate bite alignment.
Personalized - Consultations: To create a personalized treatment plan.
Pre-Surgical Orthodontic Treatment
Patients often need to wear braces or clear aligners for 12 to 18 months to prepare the teeth for the new jaw positions. This is essential to ensure that the teeth align properly post-surgery.
Preparing for Surgery Day
- Diet and Lifestyle Changes: Patients are usually advised to switch to a liquid diet and avoid solid foods before surgery.
- Medical Tests: Additional tests, such as blood work and imaging, might be required.
- Anesthesia Planning: General anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient is unconscious and pain-free during the procedure.
What to Expect After Your Double Jaw Surgery
Expect swelling, bruising, and some discomfort in the first week. Most patients can resume light activities within 7-14 days, but avoid strenuous activities and maintain a soft or liquid diet for several weeks. Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing and ensure the best results.
Alternatives to Double Jaw Surgery
- Braces or Clear Aligners : Non-surgical options for mild to moderate alignment issues.
- Oral Splints: Useful for TMJ disorders or minor misalignments.
- Jawline Contouring with Fillers: Provides aesthetic benefits but does not address functional issues.
Before-and-After Pictures
Our Free Concierge Services
If you’re traveling to Korea for a double jaw surgery, we offer free services to ensure you a smooth and comfortable experience. These services include assistance with accommodations, transportation, and post-operative care, customized to meet the unique needs of international patients. We also have an interpreter service and we can organize leisure activities for you in Seoul.
Why Choose Double Jaw Surgery in Korea?
1. Advanced Medical Technologies
Korean clinics utilize state-of-the-art technology such as 3D-CT scans and Morpheus 3D simulations to plan and execute surgeries with high precision. The use of CAD/CAM technology helps in creating precise surgical guides, leading to improved outcomes and reduced risks.
2. Experienced Surgeons
South Korea is home to some of the world’s best maxillofacial surgeons who specialize in double jaw surgery. These surgeons undergo rigorous training and are known for their innovative surgical techniques, such as No-Tie Jaw Surgery and the use of bioresorbable pins that eliminate the need for removal.
3. Comprehensive Care and Facilities
Korean clinics are known for providing full care, including thorough pre-surgical assessments, personalized treatment plans, and dedicated post-operative care.
F.A.Q.
General anesthesia prevents pain during surgery, but some discomfort is expected during recovery.
Initial recovery is around 6 to 12 weeks, with full healing taking up to a year.
Yes, the results are typically permanent, although relapse can occur if post-operative care is not followed.
A liquid or soft diet is recommended initially, with gradual reintroduction of solid foods.
Book your free consultation
We provide a seamless experience, from airport pick-up to post-surgery care, ensuring your visit is comfortable and stress-free.