Corrective Jaw Surgery Performed by Oral Surgeon VS Plastic Surgeon?

Question

I was wondering if the corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic) is different in terms of the method and result when it's performed by an oral surgeon or plastic surgeon? I've seen many post-surgery pictures and the results seem identical (correct receding chin, slimming jaw line, etc) Can the jaw surgery performed by a plastic surgeon alleviate any jaw pain(TMJ, etc) or is it purely for aesthetic purposes?

Morgan E. Norris, III, MD, FACS · Answer

Typically orthognathic surgery to treat TMJ is performed by
an oral maxillofacial surgeon.  It is
true that some results appear identical regardless of who performs them,
however in my opinion oral maxillofacial surgeons are preferable when treating functionality
issues and plastic surgeons are preferable when addressing aesthetic
issues.  I, myself, am board certified as
both a plastic surgeon and an oral maxillofacial surgeon providing me with a
dual perspective that is very beneficial when it comes to performing any type
of facial surgery.  My recommendation is
to find a surgeon who is also board certified in both specialties if at all
possible.  If that is not possible, research
for a board certified oral maxillofacial surgeon if you are concerned with jaw
pain or TMJ.Be well and good luck!@norrisplastic

Brian Dorfman, MD, DMD · Answer

Orthognathic Jaw Surgery is performed almost exclusively by Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons.  This is because oral & maxillofacial surgeons are trained to treat the skeletal conditions and occlusion problems (problems with the bite).  Plastic surgeons are not usually trained in the diagnosis and treatment of occlusion because this is done in dental school.  Also TMJ issues are treated by oral and maxillofacial surgeons in most instances for the same reason.  Although there may be a few plastic surgeons out there that have knowledge of these CRITICAL FACTORS associated with orthognathic jaw surgery, that is not the norm.  Seek the advice of a Board Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon for this particular surgery since it is a FUNCTIONAL surgery, not just aesthetic

Corrective Jaw Surgery Performed by Oral Surgeon VS Plastic Surgeon?

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Corrective Jaw Surgery Performed by Oral Surgeon VS Plastic Surgeon?

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Jaw Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.