Orthognathic Surgery
Corrective Jaw Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is needed when the top and bottom jaws don’t meet correctly and/or teeth don’t adequately fit within the jaw. Teeth are straightened with orthodontics, and corrective jaw surgery repositions a misaligned jaw. This not only improves facial appearance, but also ensures that teeth meet correctly and function properly.
Orthognathic Surgery Presentation
To provide you with a better understanding of orthognathic surgery, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to orthognathic surgery are discussed.
Who needs orthognathic surgery?
People who can benefit from orthognathic surgery include those with an improper bite, or jaws that are positioned incorrectly. Jaw growth is a gradual process and in some instances, the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. The result can be a host of problems that may affect chewing function, speech, or long-term oral health and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects can also affect jaw alignment. Orthodontics alone can correct bite problems when only the teeth are involved. Orthognathic surgery may be required for the jaws when repositioning is necessary.
Difficulty in the following areas should be evaluated:
- Difficulty in chewing, biting, or swallowing
- Speech problems
- Chronic jaw or TMJ pain
- Open bite
- Protruding jaw
- Breathing problems
Any of these symptoms can exist at birth, be acquired after birth as a result of hereditary or environmental influences, or as a result of trauma to the face. Before any treatment begins, a consultation will be held to perform a complete examination with x-rays. During the pre-treatment consultation process, feel free to ask any questions that you have regarding your treatment. When you are fully informed about the aspects of your care, you and your dental team can make the decision to proceed with treatment together.
Technology & Orthognathic Surgery
Dr. Blazic and Dr. Hanchett use modern computer-aided techniques and three-dimensional models to show you exactly how your surgery will be approached. Using comprehensive facial x-rays and computer video imaging, we can show you how your bite will be improved and even give you an idea of how you’ll look after surgery. This helps you understand the surgical process and the extent of the proposed treatment.
If you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, Drs. Blazic or Hanchett will work closely with your dentist and orthodontist during your treatment. The actual surgery can move your teeth and jaws into a new position that results in a more attractive, functional, and healthy dental-facial relationship.

What to Expect
- Corrective jaw surgery is a significant intervention requiring many months of preparation.
- The surgery is performed in the hospital and can last between one to four hours.
- Hospital stays of one to three days are normal.
- Braces are maintained during surgery and may need to be removed six to twelve months after surgery.
- The greatest impact of orthognathic surgery is the recovery phase.
- Patients typically may be off work/school from two weeks to one month after surgery.
- Return to normal chewing function may take 2 months and full
function may take one year. - Our goal is to ensure you are well taken care of during and after surgery.
- Weekly appointments are required for up to two months after surgery.
Palm Valley Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
As one of many baby boomers my dental experiences have left me unable to become comfortable around any dentist- the truth is-sitting in a dentist chair brings back nightmares.Dr Blazic, after a few visits has assured me no more bad experiences- you see he cares- he is one fine person who gives you excellent care. I believe I am a lucky person to have found him.
- Barb R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Blazic is such an Awesome Oral Surgeon. He's kind, down to earth, professional and cares about his patients. I wouldn't go to anyone else. He's definately a 5 Star in my book.
- Sandra T
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
THANK YOU! You took great care of me in every way...well beyond the procedure itself. Sudye is a such a gem; I loved every minute she spent with me. Dr Hanchett (and staff) squeezed me into a full schedule and saved me a second trip to the office, but his consult and the work wasn't rushed in any way. It's not often someone like me can say they actually enjoyed their oral surgery! Oh, BTW Dr Hanchett also called me last night to check that I was OK. I was touched.
- Carl S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Staff was very friendly Got me in last minute on a referral and removed tooth extremely fast, within minutes, and painlessly.
- Jeffery R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I had to get a molar removed. Dr. Blazic told me it was going to be the best dental visit I've ever had. The next thing I remember was I was in a wheelchair being pushed out to my daughter's car. It was lights out. He was right. I also didn't have to sit in the chair very long at all anticipating and feeling nervous. I would recommend him to anyone. Very professional.
- Lori
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Blazic and his staff are prompt, friendly and knowledgeable about the procedure of dental implants as well as all oral surgery. I recommend them highly. It's very important to have total confidence in your oral surgeon to know he's doing what's best for you.
- Janis K
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
We were a bit worried at first being that we were not putting our son to sleep. They used numbing agents and the doctor had the tooth out in no time. My son was very happy and didn't feel a thing. The doctor was great and made my son feel very special for not being scared. We will return.
- Elizabeth B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Excellent facility. Will definitely recommend Dr. Blazic to my friends and family.
- Daniel C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
The Doctor and staff exemplifies the professionalism and respect people want and expect.
- Gelie R