Orthognathic Surgery
Jaw surgery planned to correct skeletal bite problems, improve function, and support balanced facial proportions.
Orthognathic surgery repositions one or both jaws when a skeletal difference affects the bite, chewing, speech, breathing, facial balance, or long-term oral function. It is different from routine dental treatment because the plan considers the relationship between the teeth, jaws, facial skeleton, airway, joints, and soft tissues.
The first stage is an individual evaluation. This may include a clinical examination, photographs, dental models or digital scans, and three-dimensional imaging when clinically indicated. Dr. Yuri Julio reviews the patient's concerns, medical history, bite, jaw movement, facial proportions, and previous orthodontic records. The evaluation helps determine whether surgery is appropriate and which alternatives should be discussed.
Orthodontic preparation is often part of the process. The surgeon and orthodontist coordinate tooth movement with the surgical plan. Digital planning can simulate jaw movements, support communication between professionals, and help produce surgical guides. Technology adds precision, but the final recommendation still depends on clinical judgment and informed consent.
The operation is performed in a hospital under general anesthesia. The exact procedure, duration, fixation method, hospital stay, diet, swelling, and recovery timeline vary according to the planned jaw movements and the patient's health. Patients receive specific instructions about medications, oral hygiene, nutrition, activity, warning signs, and follow-up.
International patients should plan enough time in São Paulo for the preoperative examination, surgery, early postoperative appointments, and clearance before travel. Long-term follow-up must be coordinated with the orthodontist and dental professionals in the patient's home country. Flight dates should remain flexible until the treating team confirms that travel is appropriate.
All surgery carries risks. These can include bleeding, infection, altered sensation, bite changes, relapse, joint symptoms, and the need for additional care. Risks and expected outcomes must be discussed for the individual case before a decision is made.
Potential Benefits
- Individualized functional and facial assessment
- Coordinated orthodontic and surgical planning
- Three-dimensional planning when clinically indicated
- Structured hospital and postoperative care
- Follow-up planning for international patients
Treatment recommendations depend on an individual clinical evaluation, imaging when indicated, informed consent, and follow-up planning.