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 board-certified orthognathic surgery that works in close coordination with your orthodontist to achieve both functional and life-changing aesthetic results.

This 2026 guide covers everything you need to know: what orthognathic surgery is, who qualifies, what the step-by-step process looks like, how much it costs, what recovery really involves, and why West Valley OMS is the right choice for patients across West Jordan, South Jordan, Murray, Taylorsville, Riverton, and Herriman.

What Is Orthognathic Surgery?

Orthognathic surgery 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 long-term solution when a bite problem stems from jaw structure rather than tooth position alone.

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 open the airway and reduce apnea episodes
• Chronic jaw pain or TMJ dysfunction caused by structural misalignment
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing due to bite problems that orthodontics can’t fully resolve

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.

You may be a candidate if:

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

The most reliable way to know if orthognathic surgery is right for you is a consultation with one of the board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons at West Valley OMS. We use advanced 3D cone-beam CT imaging to evaluate your jaw structure precisely and build a digital surgical plan before any procedure begins.

The Orthognathic Surgery Process: Step by Step

Step 1: Consultation and 3D Imaging

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation at West Valley OMS. We’ll review your dental and medical history, take 3D CT scans, capture digital photos and impressions, and assess your bite from multiple angles. If surgery is indicated, we’ll coordinate with your orthodontist to build a unified treatment plan.

Step 2: Pre-Surgical Orthodontics (12–18 Months)

Before surgery, your orthodontist moves your teeth into the positions they’ll occupy after your jaw is repositioned. This phase typically takes 12–18 months. Your bite may look or feel slightly worse during this time — that’s completely expected, as your teeth are being aligned to the corrected jaw position, not the current one. Patience here pays off significantly.

Step 3: Surgical Planning with Digital Software

Our surgeons at West Valley OMS use 3D CT scans and digital surgical planning software to map out exactly how far and in which direction your jaw will be moved. This level of precision reduces operating time, improves accuracy, and leads to more predictable outcomes — a major advantage for patients coming from West Jordan, Taylorsville, Murray, Riverton, and the broader Salt Lake Valley.

Step 4: The Surgery Itself

Orthognathic surgery is performed under general anesthesia, typically in a hospital or accredited surgical center. The procedure takes 2–4 hours depending on whether one jaw or both are being corrected. Most incisions are made inside the mouth — no visible facial scars. The jaw bones are repositioned per the surgical plan and secured with small titanium plates and screws that remain permanently in place and are well-tolerated by the body.

Step 5: Hospital Stay and Initial Recovery

Most patients stay in the hospital for 1–2 nights post-surgery. Swelling, bruising, and jaw stiffness are expected and normal. You’ll receive detailed discharge instructions covering diet, medications, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments.

Step 6: Recovery at Home (Weeks 1–8)

Most patients take 2–4 weeks off from work or school. Swelling peaks around days 3–5 and gradually resolves over several weeks — though mild residual swelling can persist for up to 3–6 months. Pain is typically manageable with prescription medication in the first week, transitioning to over-the-counter options by week two. A liquid-to-soft-food diet is required for approximately 6–8 weeks.

Step 7: Post-Surgical Orthodontics (6–12 Months)

Once the jaw has healed — usually 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 position.

How Much Does Orthognathic Surgery Cost in Utah? (2026 Estimates)

Orthognathic surgery is a significant investment, but for most patients the functional and quality-of-life gains make it well worth the cost. Here’s what to expect in Utah for 2026:

• Single-jaw surgery (upper or lower only): $20,000–$40,000 total (surgical, anesthesia, facility fees combined)
• Double-jaw surgery (bimaxillary): $40,000–$65,000 or more for complex cases
• Pre- and post-surgical orthodontics: $5,000–$8,000 (billed separately by your orthodontist)

Insurance coverage matters here: When orthognathic surgery is medically necessary — documented bite dysfunction, airway obstruction, sleep apnea, or significant chewing impairment — medical insurance (not just dental) often covers a substantial portion, sometimes 50–80% after deductibles. West Valley OMS works with most major insurance carriers and our team will help you verify benefits, request prior authorization, and understand your out-of-pocket costs before you commit to treatment.

Patients also frequently explore financing options for remaining balances. Our front office can walk you through options during your consultation.

Orthognathic Surgery Recovery: 2026 Tips and What Patients Really Want to Know

Patients coming to us from West Jordan, South Jordan, Murray, Herriman, Riverton, and Taylorsville frequently ask us the same questions about recovery. Here’s what our surgeons tell them:

• When will I look “normal” again? Most patients feel socially presentable within 3–4 weeks. Significant swelling resolves within 4–6 weeks; subtle puffiness can persist for 3–6 months but is usually not noticeable to others after the first month.
• Will my face shape change? Yes — often positively. Repositioning the jaw improves facial balance and profile. We use digital simulation so you can preview the expected results before surgery.
• Is the pain bad? Most patients report the jaw stiffness and swelling are more challenging than pain itself. Prescription medications are provided for the first week.
• What can I eat? Liquids and very soft foods for weeks 1–6. Think smoothies, yogurt, mashed foods, and protein shakes. Your surgical team provides a detailed dietary plan.
• When can I exercise again? Light walking after 2 weeks; moderate activity after 4–6 weeks; strenuous exercise after 8 weeks minimum.
• Are the results permanent? Yes. Once fully healed, jaw position is stable and permanent for the vast majority of patients. Unlike Invisalign or braces alone, orthognathic surgery changes the underlying bone structure.

Why Choose West Valley OMS for Orthognathic Surgery?

Orthognathic surgery requires advanced specialty training in oral and maxillofacial surgery, significant case experience, and access to 3D planning technology. Not every oral surgeon performs it. At West Valley OMS, our board-certified surgeons have completed the full OMS residency training — which includes surgery rotations in orthognathic procedures, craniofacial reconstruction, and complex jaw cases — and they bring that expertise to every patient consultation.

We also take pride in our collaborative approach. We work closely with orthodontists throughout the Salt Lake Valley — including practices serving West Jordan, Murray, Taylorsville, Riverton, South Jordan, and Herriman — to ensure your orthodontic and surgical care is fully coordinated. If you’ve already been referred by an orthodontist, we make the handoff seamless. If you’re self-referring, we can connect you with experienced orthodontic partners in your area.

Beyond jaw surgery, many of our orthognathic patients also inquire about restorative options as part of a broader treatment plan. Our team is experienced with dental implants in West Valley, UT for patients who have missing teeth as part of their reconstructive care. You can also review our complete 2026 dental implants guide for West Valley if implants may be part of your future treatment. For patients who want to understand the full scope of our practice’s credentials and care approach, our guide on how to find the right oral surgeon near you in the Salt Lake Valley is a helpful starting point.

Patients already coordinating care for related jaw conditions may also find our post on jaw surgery options for Taylorsville, UT patients helpful for understanding how we serve the broader community.

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

West Valley OMS is centrally located to serve patients from across the greater Salt Lake Valley. Whether you’re driving from West Jordan (approximately 10 minutes south), Murray (15 minutes east), Taylorsville (10 minutes), South Jordan (20 minutes south), Riverton (25 minutes), or Herriman (25 minutes), our office is convenient and easy to reach. We offer flexible scheduling, including early morning appointments, to accommodate patients with busy work or school schedules.

We welcome referrals from orthodontists, general dentists, and primary care providers, and we also accept self-referred patients. If you’ve been told you may need corrective jaw surgery — or if you’ve been living with a bite problem, jaw pain, or sleep apnea that hasn’t been adequately addressed — contact West Valley OMS to schedule your consultation today. We’ll evaluate your imaging, answer all your questions, and give you an honest assessment of whether orthognathic surgery is the right path forward for your situation.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or surgical advice. Every patient’s anatomy and clinical situation is unique. Please consult with a qualified, board-certified 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 planned, elective-reconstructive procedure performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to reposition structurally misaligned jaws. “Jaw surgery” is a broader term that can include fracture repair, tumor removal, or TMJ procedures. Orthognathic surgery specifically addresses skeletal bite problems and is almost always coordinated with orthodontic treatment before and after the procedure.

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

The key distinction is whether your bite problem originates from tooth position or jaw bone position. Orthodontics corrects tooth alignment; orthognathic surgery corrects jaw bone position. Your orthodontist and oral surgeon will evaluate your skeletal structure using 3D scans, X-rays, and clinical examination to determine which is appropriate. Many patients need both treatments in sequence.

How long does the entire orthognathic surgery process take?

The full process — including pre-surgical orthodontics (12–18 months), surgery and initial recovery (6–8 weeks), and post-surgical orthodontics (6–12 months) — typically spans 2–3 years from start to finish. The surgery itself is a single-day procedure, but the full treatment journey requires commitment and patience. Most patients report the functional and aesthetic outcomes are well worth it.

Does West Valley OMS coordinate with my orthodontist?

Yes — closely. We work with orthodontists throughout West Valley, West Jordan, Murray, Taylorsville, South Jordan, Riverton, and the broader Salt Lake Valley. If your orthodontist has referred you to us, we coordinate every phase of care with their office. If you don’t yet have an orthodontist, we can recommend experienced providers in your area.

Is orthognathic surgery covered by insurance in Utah?

When orthognathic surgery is medically necessary — which includes cases involving documented chewing dysfunction, airway obstruction, sleep apnea, or significant functional impairment — medical insurance often covers a substantial portion. Purely cosmetic cases may not qualify. Our team at West Valley OMS will verify your benefits, assist with prior authorization, and clarify your out-of-pocket responsibility before treatment begins.

What is the best age to have orthognathic surgery?

Most surgeons recommend waiting until jaw growth is complete — typically 17–21 for males and 16–18 for females. Operating before growth is finished risks relapse as the jaw continues to develop. Adults of any age can be candidates as long as they are in good overall health. There is no upper age limit for orthognathic surgery, though healing may take slightly longer for older patients.