The position of the jaws is essential for maintaining a healthy smile, a balanced face, and a functional bite. When there are alterations in the growth of the upper or lower jaw, it not only affects facial aesthetics but can also compromise your ability to chew, breathe, and speak properly.
Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, is a highly specialized procedure within maxillofacial surgery that aims to align the jaws, improve the bite, and restore facial symmetry.
At Odontomurillo Dental Clinic in Colombia, led by Dr. Gabriel Murillo, we offer this advanced procedure with the highest safety standards, cutting-edge technology, and a skilled team dedicated to delivering life-changing results.
What Is Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is a surgical procedure designed to correct dentofacial deformities related to the size, position, or shape of the jaws. It is recommended in cases where orthodontic treatment alone is not enough to correct the bite or improve facial aesthetics.
This procedure repositions the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both, so that the teeth fit together properly and the face achieves a more harmonious appearance.
For many patients, orthognathic surgery not only enhances their appearance but also addresses functional issues such as difficulty chewing, snoring, sleep apnea, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain.
Who Is a Candidate for Orthognathic Surgery?
Not everyone with bite problems needs orthognathic surgery. This procedure is typically recommended when there are:
- Open bite, crossbite, or severe overbite.
- Noticeable disproportion between the upper and lower jaws.
- A very prominent or recessed jaw.
- Difficulty biting, chewing, or speaking properly.
- Chronic jaw pain or clicking sounds in the joint.
- Breathing problems related to jaw positioning.
- Facial imbalance affecting aesthetics and self-esteem.
At Odontomurillo, we perform a detailed clinical and radiographic evaluation to determine if orthognathic surgery is the best option for each patient.
Benefits of Orthognathic Surgery
Orthognathic surgery offers a wide range of aesthetic and functional benefits:
- Improves bite and chewing function, allowing proper food processing.
- Harmonizes facial proportions, resulting in a balanced, natural profile.
- Optimizes breathing, especially in patients with sleep apnea or airway problems.
- Reduces jaw pain associated with TMJ disorders.
- Boosts self-esteem and personal confidence by significantly enhancing facial appearance.
- Provides stable and permanent results, especially when combined with proper orthodontic treatment.
The Step-by-Step Procedure
Orthognathic surgery is a complex procedure requiring detailed planning and a multidisciplinary approach. At Odontomurillo, we follow strict protocols to ensure safety and treatment success.
Surgical Planning
Before surgery, we create a digital surgical plan that includes X-rays, CT scans, and 3D models to determine the exact bone movements needed. This allows us to predict results accurately and minimize surgical time.
Operating Room, Anesthesiologist, and Intraoperative Medications
The procedure includes all aspects related to hospital safety:
- Operating room rights, ensuring a sterile environment with advanced technology.
- Specialized anesthesiologist, ensuring safe anesthesia and constant monitoring.
- Intraoperative medications, controlling pain, inflammation, and patient stability.
Osteosynthesis Materials
During surgery, titanium plates and screws are used to secure the bones in their new position. These materials are biocompatible, safe, and permanent.
One-Day Hospitalization
Unlike minor procedures, orthognathic surgery requires overnight hospitalization to monitor the patient during the first critical hours after surgery, ensuring safety and optimal recovery.
Recovery and Postoperative Care
Recovery from orthognathic surgery typically takes 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the complexity of the case. During this period, it is normal to experience swelling, bruising, and difficulty speaking or chewing.
Key postoperative care tips:
- Maintain a liquid or soft diet during the first few weeks.
- Follow prescribed medications strictly.
- Sleep with your head slightly elevated to reduce swelling.
- Avoid intense physical activity during the first month.
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments.
Most patients can return to light work or academic activities after 2 to 3 weeks and will see final results between 6 and 12 months.
Possible Risks and How to Minimize Them
Being a major procedure, orthognathic surgery carries some risks, including:
- Infection at the surgical site.
- Temporary changes in lip or chin sensitivity.
- Minor bruising or bleeding.
- Bite adjustments during recovery.
At Odontomurillo, we minimize these risks through digital planning, the use of high-quality materials, and the extensive experience of Dr. Gabriel Murillo in maxillofacial surgery.
Expected Results of Orthognathic Surgery
The results of orthognathic surgery are highly satisfactory both aesthetically and functionally. Patients typically experience:
- Significant improvements in bite and chewing function.
- A more balanced, symmetrical facial appearance.
- Increased self-confidence and personal satisfaction.
- Enhanced quality of life due to improved breathing and reduced jaw pain.
Why Choose Odontomurillo for Orthognathic Surgery in Colombia?
Choosing where to have your orthognathic surgery is crucial. At Odontomurillo, we offer:
- Professional expertise: Dr. Gabriel Murillo is a specialist in maxillofacial surgery with extensive experience.
- Comprehensive plan: Includes operating room rights, anesthesiologist, intraoperative medications, osteosynthesis materials, one-day hospitalization, and detailed surgical planning.
- Advanced technology: Digital planning and state-of-the-art equipment.
- Personalized care: Full support before, during, and after the procedure.
- Strategic location: Modern clinic in Colombia, easily accessible for patients across Colombia.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthognathic Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is a maxillofacial procedure aimed at correcting jaw growth or positioning issues. It improves bite alignment, corrects facial deformities, optimizes breathing, and restores facial symmetry. It is recommended when orthodontics alone cannot solve the problem.
Candidates include patients with severe bite misalignment (open bite, crossbite, or deep overbite), prominent or recessed jaws, chewing problems, breathing difficulties related to jaw growth, or facial imbalance affecting aesthetics and self-esteem. Typically, it is recommended for adults over 18 years old, once bone growth is complete.
No. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, so the patient feels no pain during surgery. Postoperatively, some swelling, jaw pressure, or mild bruising may occur, but these symptoms are well managed with prescribed medications.
Initial recovery takes 2 to 6 weeks. During this time, patients follow a soft or liquid diet and avoid strenuous activities. Swelling gradually subsides, and aesthetic improvements become visible. Full functional recovery and final bone stability occur within 6 to 12 months, depending on the case.
The benefits are both aesthetic and functional:
- Improved bite and chewing ability.
- A more balanced, attractive facial profile.
- Enhanced breathing, particularly for sleep apnea patients.
- Relief from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort.
- Increased self-esteem and confidence.
Results are permanent when combined with proper orthodontic treatment and follow-up care.
Our surgical plan is comprehensive and includes:
- Operating room rights.
- Specialized anesthesiologist.
- Intraoperative medications.
- Osteosynthesis materials (titanium plates and screws).
- One-day hospitalization for monitoring.
• Advanced digital planning with 3D models.
As with any major surgery, risks exist but are rare in experienced hands. Possible complications include swelling, bruising, temporary changes in sensation, or mild infections. At Odontomurillo, we strictly follow biosafety protocols to minimize these risks.
No. Most incisions are made inside the mouth, meaning there are no visible external scars, ensuring natural, aesthetic results.
The cost varies depending on each case and factors such as complexity, surgical time, and individual needs. At Odontomurillo, we provide an initial evaluation to design a personalized plan and offer a detailed quote, which includes all key aspects: operating room, anesthesiologist, medications, osteosynthesis, hospitalization, and surgical planning.
Because we combine Dr. Gabriel Murillo’s expertise, a highly qualified multidisciplinary team, advanced digital technology, and strict safety protocols to ensure reliable, aesthetic, and functional results. Our strategic location in Colombia, makes us a leading choice for patients across the region and beyond.
Conclusion
Orthognathic surgery is a transformative procedure that corrects bite problems, improves breathing, and restores facial harmony. At Odontomurillo Dental Clinic in, Colombia, led by Dr. Gabriel Murillo, you’ll find an experienced team and advanced technology committed to delivering safe, reliable, and high-quality results.
Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward a balanced face, a functional smile, and a better quality of life.