One of the largest providers of orthognathic surgery in our area, we offer surgical orthodontics to correct misalignments or other abnormalities in the upper and/or lower jaw. Dr. Palermo works closely with an experienced oral surgeon to create a cohesive treatment plan to help improve speech, breathing, chewing and appearance.
In addition to orthodontic appliances, orthognathic surgery can involve procedures such as an osteotomy (bone cutting), bone grafts, or distraction osteogenesis (stretching of the bone). Orthognathic correction is conducted in stages, and the course of treatment can last from a few months to a year or more.
In order to perform the procedure successfully, the jawbones will be repositioned in accordance with one’s specific needs. Inconspicuous incisions are usually made inside, and if needed, outside the mouth to allow for surgical plates, screws, wires and rubber bands to be used to hold your jaws in their new positions.
Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (SARPE)
Combining surgery and orthodontic treatment to widen the upper jaw and palate, Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (SARPE) is a technique-sensitive procedure that is typically performed on adults when other techniques are not effective.
This procedure can help with:
- Breathing: Widening the palate can help with breathing through the nose and relieve obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
- Teeth: Creating space to align crooked teeth and correct crossbites
- Jaw Balance: Rebalancing the width of the jaws when the upper jaw is too narrow
- TMJ disorders: May help prevent TMJ disorders
The surgery is performed in an operating room under general anesthesia and usually takes about two hours. After surgery, patients can expect:
- Swelling and bruising that peaks around 3–5 days
- Numbness in the jaw, gums, teeth, skin, and lip that can take over a year to resolve
- A liquid diet for the first two weeks
- Weight loss of 5–10 pounds in the first two weeks
