If you’ve been told that braces or aligners alone can’t fully correct your bite, you may be a candidate for orthognathic surgery — also called corrective jaw surgery. For patients in West Valley, UT and throughout the Salt Lake Valley, West Valley OMS provides expert orthognathic surgery that works in close coordination with your orthodontist to achieve both functional and aesthetic results.

This guide explains what orthognathic surgery is, who needs it, what the process looks like from consultation through recovery, and why board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons are the right providers for this procedure.

What Is Orthognathic Surgery?

Orthognathic surgery is a procedure that repositions the upper jaw (maxilla), the lower jaw (mandible), or both to correct skeletal misalignments that affect chewing, speaking, breathing, and facial balance. Unlike orthodontic treatment, which moves teeth within the jaw, orthognathic surgery moves the bones themselves — making it the only effective solution when a bite problem stems from jaw structure rather than tooth position.

Common conditions treated with orthognathic surgery include:

• Underbite — the lower jaw protrudes beyond the upper jaw
• Overbite — the upper jaw extends too far forward relative to the lower jaw
• Open bite — upper and lower teeth don’t make contact when the mouth is closed
• Crossbite — upper and lower teeth don’t align properly side-to-side
• Facial asymmetry — one side of the jaw is longer or positioned differently than the other
• Obstructive sleep apnea — jaw advancement surgery can improve airway space
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing due to bite misalignment

Who Is a Candidate for Corrective Jaw Surgery?

Most patients who undergo orthognathic surgery are adults or older teenagers whose jawbones have finished growing — typically around age 16–18 in females and 17–21 in males. Attempting surgery before growth is complete can result in relapse, as the jaw may continue to shift after surgery.

You may be a candidate if:

• Your orthodontist has told you that braces or Invisalign alone can’t fully correct your bite
• You have chronic jaw pain, difficulty chewing, or uneven wear on your teeth
• You’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea that hasn’t responded adequately to CPAP therapy
• You have a significant facial asymmetry affecting your confidence or function
• You experience speech difficulties related to jaw position

The best way to know if orthognathic surgery is right for you is a consultation with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon at West Valley OMS. We use advanced 3D imaging to evaluate your jaw structure and create a precise surgical plan before a single incision is made.

The Orthognathic Surgery Process: Step by Step

1. Orthodontic Preparation (12–18 Months)

Orthognathic surgery is almost always combined with orthodontic treatment. Before surgery, your orthodontist will move your teeth into the positions they’ll occupy after your jaw is repositioned. This pre-surgical orthodontic phase typically takes 12–18 months. It may actually make your bite look worse temporarily — that’s expected and normal, as your teeth are being aligned to the corrected jaw position, not the current one.

2. Surgical Planning

Our surgeons at West Valley OMS use 3D CT scans and digital surgical planning software to map out exactly how far and in what direction your jaw will be moved. This precision planning means fewer surprises in the operating room and more predictable outcomes for patients in West Valley, West Jordan, Taylorsville, Murray, and across the Salt Lake Valley.

3. The Surgery Itself

Orthognathic surgery is performed under general anesthesia, typically in a hospital or surgical center setting. The procedure takes 2–4 hours depending on whether one jaw or both are being corrected. Most incisions are made inside the mouth, so there are no visible facial scars. The jaw bones are repositioned according to the surgical plan and held in their new position with small titanium plates and screws that remain permanently in place.

4. Hospital Stay & Initial Recovery

Most patients stay in the hospital for 1–2 nights after orthognathic surgery. Swelling, bruising, and some jaw stiffness are normal and expected. Your surgeon will provide detailed post-operative instructions, including dietary guidelines (a liquid-to-soft-food diet for 6–8 weeks) and activity restrictions.

5. Recovery at Home

Most patients take 2–4 weeks off from work or school during the initial recovery period. Swelling peaks around day 3–5 and gradually resolves over several weeks, though some mild swelling can persist for 3–6 months. Pain is typically managed well with prescription medication in the first week and over-the-counter options thereafter.

6. Post-Surgical Orthodontics (6–12 Months)

After the jaw has healed — usually around 6–8 weeks post-surgery — your orthodontist will “fine-tune” your bite with a final phase of orthodontic treatment lasting 6–12 months. This ensures your teeth settle perfectly into their new functional position.

Orthognathic Surgery Recovery: What Patients in West Jordan and West Valley Ask Us Most

Patients traveling to our office from West Jordan, South Jordan, Riverton, Herriman, and Taylorsville frequently ask us:

• How long until I’m back to normal? — Most patients feel “socially presentable” within 3–4 weeks and back to full activity within 6–8 weeks. Full bony healing takes 3–6 months.
• Will my face look different? — Yes, often in a positive way. Correcting jaw position frequently improves facial balance and profile. We use digital simulation so you can preview the expected result before surgery.
• Is it painful? — Discomfort is manageable with medication. Most patients report the swelling and jaw stiffness are the most challenging aspects, not pain itself.
• Does insurance cover it? — When orthognathic surgery is medically necessary (for bite dysfunction, sleep apnea, or significant functional impairment), medical insurance — not just dental insurance — often covers a substantial portion. Our team will help you navigate your coverage.
• Are the results permanent? — Yes. Once the jaw has fully healed in its new position, the results are stable and permanent for the vast majority of patients.

Why Choose West Valley OMS for Orthognathic Surgery?

Not every oral surgeon performs orthognathic surgery — it requires advanced specialty training in oral and maxillofacial surgery, extensive case experience, and access to 3D planning technology. At West Valley OMS, our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons have completed the full surgical and medical training required to provide this level of care safely and effectively.

We also collaborate closely with orthodontists throughout the Salt Lake Valley — including practices serving West Jordan, Murray, Taylorsville, and surrounding communities — to ensure seamless coordination across your entire treatment timeline.

If you’re already working with an orthodontist who has referred you for a jaw surgery evaluation, we make the referral process straightforward. If you’re exploring options on your own, we’re happy to connect you with experienced orthodontic partners in your area.

Patients considering jaw surgery also frequently ask us about related procedures, including dental implants in West Valley, UT for missing teeth that may be part of a broader reconstructive plan. You can also learn more about our team by visiting our guide on how to find the right oral surgeon near you.

Serving West Jordan, Taylorsville, Murray, South Jordan, Riverton & West Valley

West Valley OMS is conveniently located to serve patients from across the greater Salt Lake Valley. Whether you’re coming from West Jordan, Murray, Taylorsville, South Jordan, Riverton, or Herriman, our practice is easy to reach and our team is dedicated to making your care experience as smooth as possible from first consultation to final follow-up.

We welcome referrals from orthodontists and general dentists, and we also accept patients who self-refer. If you’ve been told you may need corrective jaw surgery, contact West Valley OMS to schedule a consultation. We’ll review your imaging, answer all your questions, and help you understand whether orthognathic surgery is the right next step for your situation.

For patients also exploring restorative options alongside orthognathic treatment, our team is experienced with dental implants near West Valley City as well as reconstructive care for complex cases.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Every patient’s situation is different. Please consult with a qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthognathic Surgery in West Valley, UT

What is the difference between orthognathic surgery and regular jaw surgery?

Orthognathic surgery is a specific type of corrective jaw surgery performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to reposition misaligned jaw bones. “Jaw surgery” can refer to any number of procedures involving the jaw — including fracture repair after facial trauma. Orthognathic surgery specifically addresses skeletal bite problems and is almost always planned and coordinated with orthodontic treatment.

How do I know if I need orthognathic surgery or just braces?

The key distinction is whether your bite problem stems from tooth position or jaw bone position. Orthodontics moves teeth; orthognathic surgery moves jaw bones. Your orthodontist and oral surgeon will evaluate your skeletal structure — typically using X-rays, 3D scans, and clinical examination — to determine which approach is appropriate for your case. Many patients need a combination of both.

How long does the entire orthognathic surgery process take from start to finish?

The full process — including pre-surgical orthodontics, surgery, recovery, and post-surgical orthodontics — typically takes 2–3 years. The surgical procedure itself is one day, but the overall treatment journey requires patience and commitment. Most patients find the long-term functional and aesthetic results are well worth the investment of time.

Does West Valley OMS work with my orthodontist?

Yes. We routinely collaborate with orthodontists throughout West Valley, West Jordan, Murray, Taylorsville, South Jordan, and the broader Salt Lake Valley. If you’ve been referred by your orthodontist, we’ll coordinate closely with their office throughout your care. If you don’t yet have an orthodontist, we can provide referrals to experienced providers in your area.

Is orthognathic surgery covered by insurance?

When orthognathic surgery is deemed medically necessary — which includes cases involving significant chewing dysfunction, speech impairment, airway obstruction, or documented functional problems — medical insurance often provides coverage. Cosmetic-only cases may not be covered. Our team will work with you to determine your benefits, obtain prior authorizations, and help you understand your financial responsibility before treatment begins.