Can jaw surgery be done for narrow jaw correction?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have an underbite and had braces on from an orthodontist. But my jaw is narrow and I want to correct it. So I consulted another orthodontist who told me that I need jaw surgery to correct the underbite.

But I have a narrow chin and lower jaw. Even if I get jaw surgery, will my lower jaw and chin get broader?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

Is your treatment for the underbite completed or underway? The timeline is important to decide whether you have to go for orthognathic surgery, which is jaw correction surgery to broaden the chin and incorporate a symmetric face.

So my specific question is,

When did you start with this orthodontic treatment?
How many months or years are you into this treatment now?
Is it completed or underway?
Are you not happy about the aesthetics?

I would need clarity regarding this before I suggest anything. I will plan accordingly to bring your facial profile to near perfection.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Glad to have you back.

I am here to help you get the best medical advice.

That is what I wanted to know. Good that you have enclosed the files (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity). I will examine them shortly and tell you how you can proceed.

Thank you.

Answer 3

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I have examined all the X-rays you enclosed. You can either have orthognathic surgery or a Le Fort III osteotomy procedure at the surgeon. I would also like you to answer a few questions mentioned below, on which my diagnosis and treatment will depend.

Did your dentist or orthodontist tell you the exact duration of correcting this underbite? It looks like you have a severe class III malocclusion, which means your lower jaw is protruding. I want details of a few questions, such as:

Is it making your bite difficult?
What is the treatment duration your orthodontist told you for the current braces you have?
Have you been facing any issues with your wisdom teeth, that is, the third molars on either side?
Did you have trouble chewing or biting before this braces treatment?
Did you have any joint issues, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) clicks, or popping sounds?

If you are not facing anything, also tell me, as it is important for facial profile planning. Your answers are extremely important so that I can suggest the correct treatment plan.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.