Corrective Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)
For patients who suffer from significant bite problems, jaw misalignment, facial imbalance, or functional issues such as airway obstruction or TMJ discomfort, orthognathic (jaw) surgery can provide a life-changing transformation. At our practice, orthognathic treatment is approached as a precise, coordinated partnership between Dr. George Georgaklis, who has been performing orthodontics for over 45 years, and our associate oral and maxillofacial surgeon, ensuring exceptional outcomes from start to finish.
Why Orthognathic Surgery Is Needed
Some patients have skeletal discrepancies that cannot be corrected with braces or Invisalign® alone. These include:
- Severe overbite or underbite
- Facial asymmetry
- Crossbite or open bite caused by jaw position
- Chronic TMJ or bite-related headaches
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
- Airway issues or sleep-related breathing problems
- Long-term bite instability or relapse
Orthognathic surgery corrects the position of the jaws, restoring ideal function, bite harmony, and balanced facial aesthetics.
Dr. Georgaklis’ Role: Expert Orthodontic Preparation
Every successful jaw surgery begins with precise orthodontic preparation. With more than 45 years of experience in orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Georgaklis carefully aligns the teeth so that once the jaws are repositioned surgically, they come together in a stable, healthy bite.
Orthodontic preparation may include:
- Braces or clear aligners to decompensate tooth positions
- Coordinated expansion or alignment to prepare for jaw movement
- Detailed 3D cone-beam imaging and analysis
- Digital surgical planning with our oral surgeon
- Ongoing adjustments tailored to the exact surgical plan
- Close monitoring of airway, TMJ function, and facial profile changes
This phase is essential; many patients are surprised to learn that the teeth are often moved away from compensation patterns so the surgeon can reposition the jaws properly.
Our Oral Surgeon’s Role: Precision Jaw Repositioning
Once orthodontic preparation is complete, our oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs the jaw surgery. Depending on the case, this may include:
- LeFort I osteotomy (upper jaw)
- BSSO (bilateral sagittal split osteotomy) for the lower jaw
- Genioplasty (chin repositioning)
- Multi-jaw corrections for complex asymmetries
- Airway-enhancing procedures for sleep-related breathing issues
The surgeon works in close coordination with Dr. Georgaklis’ orthodontic plan and uses advanced imaging and digital guides to ensure the most accurate result.
A Fully Integrated Approach
What sets our practice apart is the seamless collaboration between orthodontics and oral surgery. Throughout treatment, Dr. Georgaklis meets regularly with the surgical team, coordinates digital planning, and oversees every stage of tooth movement to ensure the postoperative bite is ideal.
Our integrated model offers:
- Faster and more predictable treatment
- A unified team that communicates continuously
- Customized esthetic and functional planning
- Reduced complications and improved long-term stability
- Outstanding esthetic outcomes for the smile and facial profile
Patients appreciate knowing that all major decisions are made by a team that works closely together every day.
Recovery and Final Orthodontic Detailing
After surgery, orthodontic treatment continues as the jaws heal. Dr. Georgaklis refines the bite, ensures proper tooth settling, and completes the detailing needed for ideal function and esthetics. Most patients experience significant improvements not only in their bite, but also in facial balance, breathing, confidence, and overall quality of life.
Who Is a Candidate?
You may be a candidate for orthognathic surgery if you have:
- Significant jaw misalignment
- Breathing or airway limitations
- Facial asymmetry or esthetic concerns
- Chronic bite dysfunction or TMJ symptoms
- Difficulty biting or chewing
Dr. Georgaklis performs a comprehensive evaluation, including CBCT imaging and facial analysis, to determine the most effective and least invasive path to correction.
Experience You Can Trust
With more than 45 years of orthodontic and cosmetic dentistry experience, Dr. George Georgaklis has a long history of successful interdisciplinary treatment. In partnership with our oral and maxillofacial surgeon, our team delivers exceptional results that enhance both function and appearance.
If you or your child has been told you may need jaw surgery—or if you’re struggling with a severe bite problem—our team is here to guide you through every step with precision, care, and expertise.
Before and After