About Jaw Correction Procedures

Get the Bite and Smile You Want:

If your teeth do not fit well together, if you have a disproportional face, a gummy smile, an under or overbite, or a jaw size that is too big or too small, you probably have jaw problems. Many people discover these problems during their teenage years and have them corrected early. Others may postpone treatment and later develop tooth problems, facial pain, or TMJ disorders related to a poor bite.

There are many treatments available to improve facial balance, improve your aesthetics and smile, correct your bite to help you eat better, eliminate jaw or TMJ related pain, and increase your teeth health and longevity. New techniques and technology now decrease your treatment time, enhance recovery, and get you back to normal activities sooner.

There are typically three stages for treatments:

Pre-surgical orthodontic treatment- To level and align teeth: 1 to 1.5 years on the average
Surgical treatment- To correct skeletal deformity: Performed in one day with 6 weeks of healing
Post-surgical orthodontic treatment- To finalize alignment of the teeth: Typically 3-6 months; to be advised by your orthodontist

Dr. Kazemi is an expert in correction of dento-facial deformities to establish correct bite, jaw size, and facial balance. He collaborates with several expert orthodontists who are leaders in their field to combine orthodontic and surgical techniques to achieve predictable results that meet your goals. Most patients can have the procedures done as outpatients, avoid jaw-wiring, and return to normal activities in as early as seven to 10 days. Insurance and payment options can make the procedure affordable.

Is Jaw Surgery Safe?

Corrective jaw surgery is safe and predictable when performed by a skilled and experienced oral surgeon. Specialized instruments and techniques are used for jaw surgery. Dr. Kazemi specializes in this procedure and has performed it successfully on hundreds of patients. The procedure is performed in a hospital under general anesthesia with a team of experienced anesthesiologists and nurses. Methodical, exacting, and detailed protocols are followed strictly to make sure every patient has a safe, comfortable, and successful procedure.

Key Information about Jaw Surgery:

It’s best to consult with both an orthodontist and oral surgeon before treatment.
Insurance pre-authorization and records should be sent early to determine coverage.
The orthodontic treatment is performed with a plan for eventual surgery. Therefore, it is important to make decisions about the surgery early as those choices will affect the course of treatment.
The procedure is performed at a hospital under general anesthesia and generally requires a one- to two-day stay.

Upper Jaw (Maxillary) Procedures

Maxillary LeFort I Surgery

What Is It?

Maxillary LeFort I surgery is a corrective jaw surgery designed to reposition the upper jaw (maxilla) to improve bite, function, and facial symmetry. It’s often used to treat:

Open bite or deep bite
Underbite or overbite
Long face or short midface
Facial asymmetry
Obstructed breathing or sleep apnea related to jaw position

The procedure is frequently combined with orthodontic treatment for optimal outcomes.

Procedure Overview

Anesthesia & Access
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia in a hospital or surgical center. An incision is made inside the mouth above the upper teeth, so there are no visible scars.
Jaw Repositioning
The maxilla is carefully mobilized and moved into the new, corrected position—forward, backward, up, down, or rotated, based on your treatment plan.
Fixation
Once in the new position, the upper jaw is stabilized with small titanium plates and screws that remain in place permanently.
Closing & Recovery
The incision is closed with dissolvable stitches. Patients usually stay one night in the hospital for monitoring and supportive care.

Before & After

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Will I be wired shut after surgery?
A: No, most patients are not wired shut. Small rubber bands may be used temporarily to help guide jaw movement during healing.

Q: Is the surgery painful?
A: You’ll be under general anesthesia during the procedure and prescribed medication to manage discomfort afterward. Most patients report swelling and soreness, but minimal pain.

Q: How long is the recovery?
A: Initial recovery takes 2–3 weeks, with most swelling resolving in about a month. Full bone healing can take 3–6 months.

Q: Will my appearance change?
A: Yes, for the better. While the changes are often subtle, many patients notice improved facial balance, lip support, and smile aesthetics.

Q: Will I need braces before and after surgery?
A: In most cases, yes. Orthodontic treatment ensures your bite aligns properly once the jaws are repositioned.

Recovery Guide

First Week

Swelling and bruising peak within 48–72 hours, then gradually subside.
A soft or liquid diet is recommended.
Ice packs, prescribed medication, and good oral hygiene are key.

Weeks 2–4

Return to light activities.
Begin gentle jaw exercises if advised.
Continue modified diet and oral rinses.

Weeks 5–8

Most patients return to work or school.
Gradual return to a normal diet.
Follow-up imaging and assessments.

After 3 Months

Major healing is complete.
Final orthodontic adjustments may continue.
You’ll see the full functional and aesthetic results.

Lower Jaw

Mandibular Jaw Surgery (Lower Jaw Surgery)

What Is It?

Mandibular jaw surgery—also known as bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO)—is a corrective procedure that repositions the lower jaw (mandible) to achieve proper alignment with the upper jaw. This surgery helps correct:

Underbite (lower jaw too far forward)
Overbite (lower jaw too far back)
Facial asymmetry
Speech or chewing problems
Jaw joint (TMJ) discomfort
Obstructive sleep apnea

It is typically performed as part of a collaborative orthodontic and surgical treatment plan.

Procedure Overview

Anesthesia & Incisions
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Small incisions are made inside the mouth behind the molars, with no visible external scars.
Jaw Adjustment
The surgeon carefully separates the lower jawbone and repositions it forward, backward, or side-to-side based on your specific treatment needs.
Stabilization
The repositioned bone segments are secured with tiny titanium plates and screws. These remain in place permanently and are biocompatible.
Closure & Healing
Incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches. An overnight hospital stay is common for monitoring and pain management.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is mandibular jaw surgery painful?
A: Most patients report discomfort and swelling, but not severe pain. Medication is provided to manage post-operative symptoms.

Q: Will my jaw be wired shut?
A: Not usually. In most cases, the jaw is stabilized with plates and screws, and small rubber bands may be used for bite guidance.

Q: How long is the recovery?
A: Initial healing takes 2–3 weeks, with complete bone healing in 3–6 months. Swelling resolves gradually within the first month.

Q: Will I look different after surgery?
A: Likely yes, but in a natural and balanced way. Improved jaw alignment often results in a stronger, more symmetrical facial profile.

Q: Will I need braces?
A: Yes. Braces are typically worn before and after surgery to align your teeth properly with the new jaw position.

Recovery Guide

First Week

Expect swelling, minor bleeding, and limited jaw movement.
Soft or liquid diet is required.
Use ice packs and prescribed medications as directed.

Weeks 2–4

Gradual improvement in swelling and mobility.
Begin gentle jaw movements or exercises if advised.
Maintain excellent oral hygiene and continue soft diet.

Weeks 5–8

Resume light activity and possibly return to work/school.
Rubber bands or other orthodontic aids may be used to guide the bite.

After 3 Months

Most major healing complete.
Facial profile and bite noticeably improved.
Final orthodontic treatment continues to refine alignment.

Benefits of Mandibular Jaw Surgery

Improved bite and function
Better chewing and digestion
Enhanced speech clarity
Relief from TMJ or jaw pain
Improved facial aesthetics and profile
Increased self-confidence

Chin Surgery

Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)

Performed Alone or with Jaw Surgery

What Is It?

Chin surgery, also known as genioplasty, is a procedure to reshape or reposition the chin to improve facial balance, harmony, and profile. It is often performed in conjunction with jaw surgery when the chin position does not match the corrected jaw alignment. A weak or prominent chin can affect overall facial aesthetics, even after bite correction—genioplasty addresses this by aligning the chin with the new jaw position.

Types of Chin Surgery

There are two main types of genioplasty:

Sliding Genioplasty: The chin bone is precisely cut and repositioned forward, backward, or vertically, depending on the desired outcome. It is then secured with small titanium plates and screws.
Chin Implant: A biocompatible implant is used to augment the chin in cases of mild deficiency. (Less commonly used in conjunction with jaw surgery.)

Your surgeon will determine which approach is best based on facial analysis, bite correction, and personal goals.

Procedure Overview

Anesthesia & Access
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The incision is made inside the lower lip, so no visible scars are left on the skin.
Chin Repositioning
If doing a sliding genioplasty, the chin bone is gently moved into its new position. Adjustments can be made in all three dimensions: forward/backward, up/down, or side-to-side for asymmetry correction.
Fixation
The chin is stabilized using small titanium plates and screws that remain in place permanently and are not visible.
Closure & Healing
The incision is closed with dissolvable stitches. The surgery is typically performed during the same session as jaw surgery for optimal results and a single recovery period.

Visual Aid Suggestion

Include profile illustrations showing:

A retruded chin before correction
Chin moved forward during sliding genioplasty
Post-op alignment showing improved jawline and facial balance
A comparison of profile views pre- and post-op can be very helpful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why have chin surgery with jaw surgery?
A: Correcting only the jaw may leave the chin out of alignment. Genioplasty ensures facial harmony and can enhance both aesthetic and functional outcomes.

Q: Will I have scars?
A: No visible scars. All incisions are made inside the mouth.

Q: Does chin surgery change my appearance significantly?
A: It can subtly—but significantly—improve your profile, jawline, and facial symmetry.

Q: Is the chin wired or fixed?
A: The repositioned chin is secured with titanium plates and screws, similar to jaw surgery.

Q: Will it affect my speech or eating?
A: Temporarily, you may experience mild swelling or numbness, but most normal functions return quickly with healing.

Recovery Guide

Week 1

Swelling and tightness in the chin area are common.
Stick to soft foods and avoid excessive jaw movement.
Keep your head elevated and follow all post-op care instructions.

Weeks 2–4

Gradual improvement in swelling and sensation.
Resume light activity and continue soft diet.
Follow up to monitor healing and plate stability.

After 1–2 Months

Most healing is complete.
Final contour and symmetry become more visible.
Chin will feel natural and integrated with your new jaw position.

Benefits of Chin Surgery with Jaw Surgery

Enhances lower facial balance and harmony
Improves weak or recessed chin profile
Creates a more defined jawline
Supports airway and soft tissue balance in some cases
Boosts overall facial aesthetics and confidence

Rapid Palatal Expansion

Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (SARPE)

What Is It?

Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (SARPE) is a procedure used to widen the upper jaw (maxilla) when it is too narrow. A narrow palate can cause issues such as dental crowding, crossbites, breathing difficulties, and poor bite alignment. SARPE is recommended for teenagers and adults, whose palatal bones have fully fused and can no longer be expanded with orthodontics alone.

This procedure combines minor oral surgery with an orthodontic appliance to gradually widen the upper jaw in a controlled and stable way.

Why SARPE Is Needed

Correction of crossbite or narrow upper arch
Creating space to align crowded teeth
Improving airway and nasal breathing
Supporting proper bite function before orthognathic surgery
Enhancing facial symmetry and smile width

Procedure Overview

Surgical Phase
Under general anesthesia, small incisions are made inside the mouth to surgically separate the mid-palatal suture (the seam in the middle of the upper jaw). The expansion appliance (usually a palatal expander) is placed and secured to the upper teeth.
Activation Phase
After a short healing period (usually 5–7 days), the expander is activated by turning a small screw daily. This gently widens the palate by stimulating bone growth.
Retention Phase
Once the desired expansion is reached (typically within 2–3 weeks), the appliance remains in place for several months to allow new bone to form and stabilize the widened jaw.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why can’t I just use braces to widen my upper jaw?
A: After puberty, the palatal bones fuse and can no longer be separated with braces alone. SARPE creates space through a safe surgical approach combined with orthodontic guidance.

Q: Is SARPE painful?
A: Most patients experience mild discomfort or tightness. Over-the-counter pain medication and ice packs are usually sufficient. Expansion feels like pressure, not sharp pain.

Q: Will the gap between my front teeth stay?
A: A temporary gap may appear during expansion but will close naturally with braces or aligners during follow-up orthodontic treatment.

Q: Will SARPE change how I look?
A: It can subtly broaden your smile and improve facial balance. Most changes are positive and natural in appearance.

Q: How long is the total treatment time?
A: Expansion takes about 2–3 weeks. The appliance stays in place for 3–6 months. Orthodontic treatment continues afterward to finalize alignment.

Recovery Guide

First Week (Post-Surgery)

Swelling and soreness are common.
Stick to soft foods and maintain oral hygiene with gentle rinses.
Rest and avoid strenuous activities.

Week 2–4 (Expansion Phase)

Begin turning the expander as instructed by your surgeon or orthodontist.
You may notice spacing between front teeth.
Expect a tight, stretching sensation across the upper jaw.

Months 2–6 (Retention Phase)

No more turning; appliance remains in place to stabilize the new bone.
Continue with orthodontic treatment and regular check-ins.
Gradual improvement in bite, space, and smile width.

Benefits of SARPE

Corrects narrow upper jaw and crossbites
Improves alignment and creates space for teeth
Enhances nasal airflow and breathing in some cases
Prepares the upper jaw for successful orthognathic surgery
Provides a broader, more balanced smile

Cost & Insurance

How Medical Insurance Covers Corrective Jaw Surgery

Corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) may be covered by medical insurance—but only under specific conditions. Insurance companies distinguish between medically necessary procedures and elective or cosmetic ones. Understanding how your plan evaluates these differences is essential for determining your potential coverage.

Medically Necessary vs. Elective

Medically Necessary Procedures
These are surgeries that correct functional problems such as:
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Speech impairment
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Chronic jaw pain (TMJ-related)
- Severe bite discrepancies causing dental breakdown
When well-documented by your surgeon and orthodontist, these conditions may qualify for insurance coverage.
Elective or Cosmetic Procedures
These are done solely to improve appearance or minor bite issues that do not impair function. Examples include:
- Enhancing facial aesthetics without functional impairment
- Minor asymmetry without medical impact
- Chin surgery (genioplasty) for cosmetic reasons
Insurance typically does not cover these procedures.

What Insurance Usually Requires

To consider coverage, most insurance carriers require:

A full clinical evaluation and diagnosis
Cephalometric and 3D imaging showing skeletal discrepancy
A letter of medical necessity from the surgeon
Proof of failed non-surgical treatments, if applicable
Coordination with an orthodontist’s records and treatment plan

Preauthorization Process

Your surgeon’s office usually submits all documentation to your insurance company for preauthorization. This process may take several weeks and determines whether the proposed procedure will be approved or denied for coverage.

Important: Approval does not always guarantee payment. It’s crucial to verify your plan’s details, such as deductibles, co-insurance, out-of-network limitations, and exclusions.

Out-of-Pocket Considerations

If part of the surgery is considered elective or not approved:

You may have to pay out-of-pocket for those portions.
Some procedures, like genioplasty, are often bundled as a separate fee.
Your surgeon’s office may provide a clear estimate and payment plan.

Our Office Can Help

Please note we out out of network with all insurance plans. Hence, any insurance benefits will be made to you directly. We can assist you with the following steps:

Pre-determination document and necessary x-rays: You will send this to your medical insurance for review
Assessment of hospitalization (including operating room and anesthesia cost). The hospital provides a cost estimate based on type of procedure, length of time, and necessary materials. You will pay the hospital directly.
Provide third party financing if needed
Provide necessary claim forms and operative report that you will submit to your insurance company for processing,