Orthognathic Surgery in Richmond, VA: Planning and Results

What is orthognathic surgery?

Orthognathic surgery, also called corrective jaw surgery, realigns the jaws to improve bite, facial balance, and airway function. When the upper and lower jaws don’t grow in harmony, teeth alone can’t create a stable bite. That’s where a team approach comes in. Your Richmond orthodontist coordinates closely with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to plan surgical orthodontics: braces or clear aligners position the teeth for surgery, the surgeon repositions the jaws, and your orthodontist fine‑tunes your bite afterward. For a deeper dive into the process and recovery, see our guide to corrective jaw surgery in Richmond, VA.

Signs you may need jaw surgery

• Persistent bite problems: underbite, overbite, crossbite, or open bite that don’t respond to orthodontics alone
• Difficulty chewing or speaking clearly, jaw or TMJ pain, or noticeable facial asymmetry
• Mouth breathing, snoring, or diagnosed sleep apnea where airway size is a concern
• Teeth that appear to tilt or “compensate” for jaw position, often a sign that orthodontics alone may camouflage rather than correct

If you’re unsure whether braces or surgery, or both, are right for you, schedule a complimentary visit with our Richmond orthodontist.

How orthodontics and jaw surgery work together

Before surgery, orthodontic appliances “decompensate” the teeth, undoing natural tilts that can hide the jaw discrepancy, so the surgeon can place the jaws in their ideal positions. Your orthodontist and surgeon share records, 3D models, and a joint plan to align function and aesthetics. After surgery, your orthodontist refines tooth positions, polishes your bite, and transitions you to retainers for long‑term stability.

• Orthodontic setup: Braces or clear aligners prepare teeth for precise jaw movements.
• Digital planning: We use CBCT and 3D imaging to simulate outcomes and create surgical guides.
• Post‑surgical finishing: Elastics may guide your bite; orthodontic detailing completes the smile.

The orthognathic surgery timeline, step by step

• Consultation and records: photos, X‑rays, CBCT, and digital scans to map bones, teeth, and airway.
• Pre‑surgical orthodontics: typically 6–12 months to position teeth for surgery.
• Digital surgical planning: virtual simulations and printed splints guide precise jaw movements.
• Day of surgery: performed by a board‑certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon; many cases are inpatient overnight, some are outpatient depending on complexity.
• Early healing: swelling peaks in 48–72 hours; most patients return to school or desk work in about 1–2 weeks with activity restrictions.
• Post‑surgical orthodontics: 4–9 months to finish the bite, followed by retainers to maintain results.

Want more detail? Explore our overview of corrective jaw surgery.

Benefits you can expect

• Function: a stable bite for easier chewing and clearer speech
• Health: in select cases, improved airway and reduced strain on teeth, joints, and muscles
• Aesthetics: enhanced facial balance and profile without overcompensating tooth positions
• Stability: more predictable, long‑term results than camouflage‑only orthodontics when skeletal changes are needed

Risks, recovery, and comfort

Common short‑term effects include swelling, bruising, temporary numbness, and a soft‑food diet. Most patients transition from liquids to soft foods over 1–2 weeks, with sensation gradually returning over months. Modern techniques use rigid plates and screws, so jaws are rarely wired shut; light elastics may guide the bite. Discomfort is manageable with prescribed or over‑the‑counter pain control, cold compresses, head elevation, and excellent oral hygiene. Follow your surgeon’s post‑op instructions and keep orthodontic visits on schedule. For additional guidance, check our patient resources.

Technology that improves planning and outcomes

CBCT, digital scans, and 3D treatment planning allow your team to measure airway volume, root positions, and jaw symmetry with accuracy. Virtual surgical simulation and custom surgical guides translate the plan to the operating room, making movements more precise and results more predictable.

Who is a good candidate?

Teens nearing growth completion and adults with skeletal discrepancies not correctable by orthodontics alone may be candidates for orthognathic surgery. You’ll need healthy gums and teeth, good general health, and realistic expectations. A thorough medical and dental screening, including airway and TMJ assessment, helps ensure surgery is safe and appropriate. Care is led by a board‑certified orthodontist working closely with a trusted surgical team.

FAQs

• Will I need braces or aligners before and after surgery?
  Yes. Pre‑surgical orthodontics sets teeth in ideal positions; post‑surgical finishing refines your bite, followed by retainers.
• How long is recovery, and will my jaws be “wired shut”?
  Most people return to school or desk work within 1–2 weeks. Rigid fixation with plates and screws means jaws are rarely wired shut; elastics may be used to guide the bite.
• Is orthognathic surgery painful?
  Expect soreness and swelling, most noticeable in the first few days. Medication and ice help keep you comfortable.
• Does insurance help cover costs?
  Many medical plans contribute when surgery is medically necessary. For budgeting, try our payment calculator and ask about financing options.
• Who performs the surgery, and where?
  A board‑certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs the procedure at a hospital or accredited surgical center. Your orthodontic care is coordinated by our team, meet them here: Meet Our Doctors.

Why choose Horsey Orthodontics in Richmond

• Experienced, board‑certified orthodontic team with deep expertise in surgical orthodontics
• Close collaboration with trusted Richmond‑area oral and maxillofacial surgeons
• Advanced imaging, digital planning, and clear communication throughout care
• Flexible financing and multiple convenient locations to fit your schedule
• See real feedback from our patients: Reviews

Next steps

Ready to learn if orthognathic surgery is right for you? Schedule a complimentary consultation. Bring any recent X‑rays or insurance information if you have them. We’ll discuss your goals, review timelines and coverage, and outline a personalized plan for your jaw surgery and orthodontic care.