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 known as corrective jaw surgery. For patients throughout West Valley, UT and the greater Salt Lake Valley, West Valley OMS provides board-certified orthognathic surgery that works in close partnership with your orthodontist to achieve both functional and aesthetically life-changing results.

This updated 2026 guide covers everything you need to know: what orthognathic surgery is, who qualifies, the complete step-by-step process, how much it costs in Utah, what recovery truly involves, and why patients from West Jordan, South Jordan, Murray, Taylorsville, Riverton, and Herriman consistently choose West Valley OMS for their corrective jaw care.

What Is Orthognathic Surgery?

Orthognathic surgery (corrective jaw 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 jaw bones themselves, making it the only effective long-term solution when a bite problem stems from jaw structure rather than tooth position alone.

This distinction matters: many patients spend years in braces only to find their bite still doesn’t close correctly. That’s a structural problem requiring a structural solution. Orthognathic surgery is that solution.

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 differently positioned than the other
• Obstructive sleep apnea — jaw advancement surgery can open the airway and significantly 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 orthognathic surgery patients 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 continues to develop post-operatively.

You may be a strong candidate for orthognathic surgery in West Valley, UT 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 hasn’t responded adequately to CPAP therapy
• You have a significant facial asymmetry affecting your function or confidence
• You experience speech difficulties related to jaw position
• You’ve been living with a bite problem your entire adult life that impacts eating, speaking, or comfort

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 (CBCT) imaging to evaluate your jaw structure with precision and build a digital surgical plan before any procedure begins. If you’re curious what that first appointment involves, our guide to what to expect at an oral surgery consultation at West Valley OMS walks through the process step by step.

Orthognathic Surgery Step by Step: The Full Process

Step 1: Comprehensive Consultation and 3D Imaging

Your journey begins with a detailed consultation at West Valley OMS. We review your dental and medical history, take 3D cone-beam CT scans, capture digital photos and bite impressions, and assess your jaw from multiple angles. If surgery is indicated, we’ll coordinate directly with your orthodontist to build a unified treatment plan — one document that governs every phase from first appointment to final retainer.

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

Before surgery, your orthodontist moves your teeth into the positions they will 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 expected, because your teeth are being aligned to the corrected jaw position, not your current one. Patients from West Jordan, Murray, and Taylorsville who are already in active orthodontic treatment often overlap this phase with their existing braces timeline.

Step 3: Digital Surgical Planning

Before the date of surgery, our surgeons use 3D CT scans and advanced digital planning software to map 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. Patients receive a preview of expected results before committing to surgery — an important step for informed consent and realistic expectation-setting.

Step 4: The Surgery Itself

Orthognathic surgery is performed under general anesthesia at a hospital or accredited surgical center. Depending on whether one jaw or both are being corrected, the procedure typically takes 2–4 hours. Most incisions are made entirely inside the mouth — leaving 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 fully biocompatible.

Step 5: Hospital Stay and Early Recovery

Most patients remain in the hospital for 1–2 nights following surgery. Swelling, bruising, and jaw stiffness are expected and normal. Discharge instructions cover diet, medications, activity restrictions, sleep positioning, and the schedule for follow-up appointments at our West Valley City office.

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 then gradually resolves over the following weeks — though mild residual puffiness 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 — typically 6–8 weeks post-surgery — your orthodontist will fine-tune the final bite with a concluding phase of orthodontic treatment. This step ensures your teeth settle precisely into the corrected jaw position, completing the transformation that surgery made possible.

Corrective Jaw Surgery for Sleep Apnea: A Growing Indication

One of the most significant — and underrecognized — applications of orthognathic surgery in 2026 is the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). For patients whose sleep apnea is caused by jaw anatomy (a retruded lower jaw that allows the tongue and soft tissue to collapse into the airway), jaw advancement surgery — specifically maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) — is one of the most effective and durable long-term solutions available.

Studies published in leading sleep medicine journals show that MMA surgery achieves a surgical success rate of 85–90% in appropriately selected OSA patients — performance that competes favorably with CPAP compliance rates over multi-year follow-up. For patients in the Salt Lake Valley who have tried CPAP therapy and found it intolerable, or whose sleep apnea is anatomically driven, a consultation about jaw advancement surgery is worth having.

At West Valley OMS, our surgeons evaluate OSA patients for surgical candidacy as part of a multi-disciplinary approach. We work with sleep medicine physicians across the region to ensure patients receive the right diagnosis before surgery and appropriate follow-up afterward. If you have been told your jaw anatomy may be contributing to your sleep apnea, we encourage you to ask your sleep physician for a referral or reach out directly to schedule a consultation.

Jaw Alignment Surgery in Salt Lake City Area: What to Know

Patients searching for jaw alignment surgery in the Salt Lake City area — including West Jordan, Murray, Taylorsville, South Jordan, Riverton, Herriman, and West Valley City — have a meaningful advantage in West Valley OMS: specialist-level orthognathic care without driving to a downtown Salt Lake City hospital system.

West Valley OMS is board-certified and fellowship-trained specifically in oral and maxillofacial surgery, which is the specialty that performs orthognathic procedures. Not every “oral surgeon” or general dentist performs corrective jaw surgery — it requires residency-level training that goes far beyond general dental education. Our surgeons completed full OMS residency programs that include extensive training in orthognathic procedures, craniofacial reconstruction, and complex jaw cases.

For patients wondering how to evaluate and select the right orthognathic surgeon, our guide on how to find the right oral surgeon in Utah covers the credential and vetting process in practical detail. And for patients in West Jordan specifically considering their surgical options, our Oral Surgeon in West Jordan, UT page explains how West Valley OMS serves that community.

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

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

• Single-jaw surgery (upper or lower jaw only): $20,000–$40,000 total (surgical, anesthesia, and facility fees combined)
• Double-jaw surgery (bimaxillary osteotomy): $40,000–$65,000 or more for complex cases
• Pre- and post-surgical orthodontics: $5,000–$8,000 (billed separately by your orthodontist)
• Consultation and 3D imaging: Typically included in or credited toward surgical fees at West Valley OMS

Insurance coverage is often substantial for medically necessary cases. When orthognathic surgery is documented as medically necessary — due to bite dysfunction, airway obstruction, sleep apnea, or significant chewing impairment — medical insurance (not just dental) frequently covers 50–80% after deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. West Valley OMS works with most major insurance carriers, and our team will help you verify benefits, submit prior authorization requests, and clarify your out-of-pocket costs before you commit to treatment.

Corrective jaw surgery cost in Salt Lake City and the surrounding valley varies by case complexity and facility. The estimates above reflect the range our surgical team sees across the patient population we treat. Financing options are available for remaining balances — ask our front office team during your consultation for current financing programs.

What Orthognathic Surgery Recovery Really Looks Like

Patients from West Jordan, South Jordan, Murray, Herriman, Riverton, and Taylorsville often come to their consultation with questions about what recovery is genuinely like — not the sanitized version, but the real day-by-day experience. Here is what our surgeons tell them honestly:

• When will I look “normal” again? Most patients feel socially presentable within 3–4 weeks. Significant swelling resolves by week 4–6; subtle residual 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 dramatically and positively. Repositioning the jaw improves facial balance and profile. We use digital simulation so you can preview expected changes before surgery.
• Is the pain bad? Most patients report the jaw stiffness and swelling are more challenging than pain itself. Prescription medications manage the first week; over-the-counter relief is usually sufficient by week two.
• What can I eat? Liquids and very soft foods for weeks 1–6. Smoothies, yogurt, protein shakes, mashed sweet potatoes, and blended soups are staples. Your surgical team provides a detailed dietary progression plan.
• When can I exercise again? Light walking begins at 2 weeks; moderate activity at 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 braces alone, orthognathic surgery changes the underlying bone structure — and that doesn’t move back.

Why Choose West Valley OMS for Orthognathic Surgery Near West Valley City?

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

We also pride ourselves on a genuinely collaborative approach. We coordinate directly with orthodontists throughout the Salt Lake Valley — including practices in West Jordan, Murray, Taylorsville, Riverton, South Jordan, and Herriman — to ensure your orthodontic and surgical care are fully synchronized. If you’ve already been referred by an orthodontist, we make the transition seamless. If you’re self-referring, we can connect you with experienced orthodontic partners in your area.

For patients who have related reconstructive needs as part of a broader treatment plan, our team also handles dental implants in West Valley City, UT for patients missing teeth alongside bite correction. Patients interested in the full range of reconstructive procedures we offer — including jaw surgery as part of comprehensive oral rehabilitation — may benefit from reviewing our resource on full mouth reconstruction in West Valley City, UT.

And if jaw-related surgical procedures are your primary question — whether for bite correction, sleep apnea, or trauma-related issues — our jaw surgery guide for Taylorsville, UT patients provides complementary perspective on how we approach care for the broader Salt Lake Valley community.

Serving the Greater Salt Lake Valley: From West Jordan to Herriman

West Valley OMS is centrally located in West Valley City, making it convenient for patients throughout the western Salt Lake Valley. Approximate drive times from major surrounding communities:

• West Jordan: Approximately 10–12 minutes south via Redwood Road or Bangerter Highway
• Murray: Approximately 12–15 minutes east via I-215 or UT-201
• Taylorsville: Approximately 8–12 minutes via UT-201 or 4700 South
• South Jordan: Approximately 18–22 minutes south via Bangerter Highway
• Riverton: Approximately 22–26 minutes via Bangerter Highway
• Herriman: Approximately 22–28 minutes north via Bangerter Highway

We offer flexible scheduling — including early morning appointments — to accommodate patients with demanding work, school, or family 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. We’ll evaluate your imaging, answer all your questions, and give you an honest, complete assessment of whether orthognathic surgery is the right path forward for your situation — with no pressure and no commitment required at the first visit.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational and educational 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 a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon to correct structurally misaligned jaws. “Jaw surgery” is a broader term that can refer to fracture repair, tumor removal, or TMJ procedures. Orthognathic surgery specifically addresses skeletal bite problems — underbite, overbite, open bite, crossbite, and facial asymmetry — 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 the jaw bones. Your orthodontist and oral surgeon will evaluate your skeletal structure using 3D scans, X-rays, and clinical examination. Many patients need both treatments in sequence — braces to prepare and refine, surgery to reposition the jaw itself.

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 outpatient-to-overnight procedure. Most patients say the outcome makes the timeline entirely worthwhile.

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 — covering cases with documented chewing dysfunction, airway obstruction, sleep apnea, or significant functional impairment — medical insurance often covers a substantial portion, frequently 50–80% after deductibles. 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.

Can jaw surgery help with sleep apnea?

Yes. Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) surgery is one of the most effective long-term treatments for obstructive sleep apnea caused by jaw anatomy. Studies show surgical success rates of 85–90% in appropriately selected patients. If you have tried CPAP therapy and found it inadequate or intolerable, and your sleep apnea is structurally driven, jaw advancement surgery may be an appropriate option to discuss with a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

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. 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.