Facial asymmetry can easily become embarrassing for people who suffer from it. Most people will therefore pursue treatment to address any health problems that may result.
Fortunately, this condition can be corrected with orthodontic treatment or orthognathic surgery.
In this article, our oral and maxillofacial specialists explain how orthognathic surgery can help with facial asymmetry.
How facial asymmetry impacts your health
Facial asymmetry, which is caused by a misalignment of the jaws, can have a variety of adverse health effects on individuals suffering from it.
In addition to its effects on aesthetics and appearance, this bone deformity can lead to respiratory problems, including sleep apnea. It can also cause language problems and affect your ability to chew.
The benefits of orthognathic surgery
Orthognathic surgery can have a host of benefits for the physical and mental health of patients who undergo it. Chewing problems can be solved by correcting the position of the teeth and jaws, which can help patients with sleep apnea breathe and sleep better.
Moreover, improving facial proportions can increase the patient’s self-confidence. In turn, this can contribute to improving their overall quality of life.
Orthognathic surgery procedure
The goal of this surgery is to restore the alignment and normal position of the jaws in relation to the rest of the skull and facial skeleton in order to improve quality of life for the individuals undergoing it.
Before the procedure, the surgeon will evaluate your condition. The surgeon will determine which type of procedure is most appropriate for the situation and establish an appropriate treatment plan. For example, in some cases, surgery will be necessary on the upper jaw, in others on the mandible or sometimes even on the chin.
Once the surgeon has made the diagnosis, a 3D virtual planning of the operation will be carried out to determine the best approach for each case.
This will be done by taking a 3D X-ray to virtually reproduce the jaws. The surgeon will then be able to use this analysis to ensure the best possible result and improve the patient’s experience.
This procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Depending on the procedure, hospitalization for a day or two may be necessary. In most cases, patients do not experience any negative consequences after surgery and are more than happy to have undergone the procedure.
Orthognathic surgery: the most effective treatment for facial asymmetry
In addition to restoring the normal facial proportions, orthognathic surgery can help address several health problems related to facial asymmetry. And as we’ve just seen, this procedure also helps improve the well-being of patients suffering from facial asymmetry.
We hope you enjoyed this overview.
Do you suffer from facial asymmetry? At Clinique MFML, our oral and maxillofacial surgeons can help you regain better health through orthognathic surgery. Make an appointment today for a consultation with one of our team members.
