Jaw Surgery in Atlanta for Bite, Facial Balance, and Airway Health
Precision-planned orthognathic surgery performed in our in-office surgical center, often in coordination with orthodontic treatment.
Orthognathic surgery-commonly referred to as corrective jaw surgery- it is designed to reposition the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both to improve how the teeth fit together, enhance facial balance, and support proper airway function.
For many patients, jaw misalignment cannot be fully corrected with orthodontics alone. Surgical correction allows for a stable, long-term solution that improves both function and overall quality of life.
At Atlanta Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implant Center, treatment is carefully planned using advanced imaging and performed in our in-office surgical center under general anesthesia.
Why Patients and Orthodontists Choose AOMS for Jaw Surgery:
Orthognathic surgery is a highly specialized procedure that requires precision, experience, and coordination between providers.
At AOMS, we focus on delivering predictable, comprehensive results through:
- Precision 3D surgical planning
- A state-of-the-art, in-office surgical center with dedicated post-operative support, including a registered nurse who accompanies patients home and monitors them during the first 2–3 hours of recovery for added safety and comfort
- General anesthesia administered by a board-certified MD anesthesiologist
- Extensive experience treating complex jaw and airway cases
- Close collaboration with your orthodontist
- A treatment approach that considers both function and facial balance
Who Is a Candidate for Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery may be recommended for patients with:
-
Difficulty biting, chewing, or swallowing
-
Chronic jaw pain or headaches
-
Open bite, underbite, overbite, or crossbite
-
Facial asymmetry or imbalance
-
Breathing or airway concerns
-
Excessive wear of teeth
-
Speech difficulties related to jaw alignment
Many patients are referred by their orthodontist when braces alone cannot fully correct these issues.
Benefits of Jaw Surgery
Corrective jaw surgery can provide both functional and aesthetic benefits, including:
-
Improved bite and chewing ability
-
Enhanced facial balance and appearance
-
Relief from jaw discomfort and strain
-
Better speech function
-
Improved airway and breathing in appropriate cases
-
Long-term stability of orthodontic results
Contact us to schedule your orthognathic surgery consultation!
The Orthognathic Surgery Process
Orthognathic treatment typically involves close coordination between your orthodontist and the oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
- Evaluation and Planning
A comprehensive evaluation is performed using digital imaging, photographs, dental models, and advanced diagnostic tools to carefully plan your procedure. - Orthodontic Preparation
Most patients undergo orthodontic treatment before surgery to properly align the teeth. - Surgical Procedure
Jaw surgery is performed in our surgical facility under general anesthesia. The jaws are repositioned and secured using specialized plates and screws. - Recovery and Healing
After surgery, patients experience swelling and temporary discomfort, which gradually improves. Our team provides detailed post-operative instructions and close follow-up care throughout the recovery process.
Recovery and Results
Recovery times vary depending on the type and extent of surgery performed. Most patients return to normal daily activities within 1-2 weeks, with continued improvement over the following months.
Final results typically include improved jaw function, better bite alignment, enhanced facial balance, and increased overall comfort and confidence.
Contact us to schedule your orthognathic surgery consultation!
Patient Orthognathic Surgery Testimonials
Contact us to schedule your orthognathic surgery consultation!
Alpharetta: Alpharetta Office Phone Number 770-664-5550Brookhaven: Brookhaven Office Phone Number 770-799-6028
Contact us to schedule your orthognathic surgery consultation!
Jaw Surgery and Airway Health
In some patients, jaw position plays a significant role in airway function. When the jaws are positioned too far back, it can contribute to airway restriction and conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea.
Orthognathic surgery can reposition the jaws forward, helping to create more space for airflow and improve breathing during sleep.
Orthodontics and Orthognathic Surgery
Are braces required?
In most instances, orthodontics are utilized to refine the occlusion. Once we line up the bones in their new positions, the patients’ teeth may need to be adjusted to fit the new spatial alignment of the jaw bones.
Typically, you have braces placed first for several months (pre-surgical orthodontics). This removes many of the positional compensations your teeth have gone through due to the malalignment of your jaw bones. Once surgery lines up your bones, the position of your teeth is finalized via post-surgical orthodontics.
Invisalign – also known as retainer therapy. Our orthognathic procedures can be done in conjunction with Invisalign therapy. We must place temporary appliances on during your surgery and we will remove them prior to you waking up after surgery. This takes place so we can accurately set your bite prior to our procedure.
On occasion, people present with themselves with very nicely aligned teeth prior to their surgery. These are people having the procedure done for cosmetic reasons or to open their airway up to improve their breathing for sleep. In these cases, orthodontics can be eliminated. However, some of these people need post-surgical orthodontics or Invisalign to fine tune their bite.
Early evaluation by a qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon can help determine if surgery is needed and improve function, appearance, and overall health.
How long does it take to recover from Orthognathic Surgery?
Recovery is different for every patient, but most follow a general timeline:
Days 1–7
Swelling, soreness, and a soft or liquid diet. Most patients rest at home.
Weeks 2–3
Swelling begins to significantly improve. Many patients return to work or school.
Around 6 Weeks
Early bone healing occurs. Diet gradually expands.
Several Months
Final healing and bite refinement continue as orthodontic treatment is completed.
Our team provides detailed post-operative instructions and remains closely involved throughout your recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need braces before or after jaw surgery?
In most cases, yes. Orthodontic treatment and jaw surgery work together to create a stable, healthy bite.
Before surgery, braces or aligners are used to position the teeth properly so the jaws can be moved into their ideal relationship. After surgery, minor orthodontic adjustments are often needed to fine-tune the bite and ensure long-term stability.
Your orthodontist and surgeon coordinate closely throughout the entire process.
How long is recovery after jaw surgery?
Recovery occurs in stages.
During the first 1–2 weeks, swelling and discomfort gradually improve, and many patients return to school or work within that time. A modified diet is required while the jaws heal.
Initial bone healing takes about 6 weeks, while complete healing and final bite settling continue over several months. Most patients feel significantly better well before full bone remodeling is complete.
Will I have visible scars?
No. All incisions are made inside the mouth.
Will my jaws be wired shut?
No. Modern techniques use small plates and screws to stabilize the jaws, allowing you to open and close your mouth.
How long is recovery?
Most patients return to normal daily activities within 1–2 weeks, with continued healing over several months.
Is jaw surgery only cosmetic?
No. While it can improve facial balance, the primary goal is to correct functional issues such as bite alignment and airway concerns.
Is jaw surgery painful?
Jaw surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the procedure.
After surgery, discomfort is typically well-managed with prescribed medication and improves steadily over the first several days. Many patients are surprised that the discomfort is less severe than they expected.
Swelling and tightness are common early on but improve progressively.
Is orthognathic surgery safe?
Yes. When performed by an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon, orthognathic surgery is safe and predictable.
As with any major procedure, there are potential risks — including infection, bleeding, temporary numbness, or delayed healing — but serious complications are uncommon. Your surgeon will review all risks and benefits in detail during your consultation so you feel fully informed before moving forward.
Will jaw surgery change how I look?
Yes – repositioning the jaws improves facial balance and symmetry because the underlying bone structure is corrected.
While the primary goal is functional improvement, many patients notice positive aesthetic changes as well, including improved profile, lip support, and facial harmony. Changes are planned carefully using advanced imaging to ensure natural-looking results.
Can jaw surgery treat sleep apnea?
In certain patients, yes.
When jaw position contributes to airway narrowing, corrective jaw surgery – particularly maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) — can enlarge the airway and improve breathing during sleep. For some patients with obstructive sleep apnea or upper airway resistance syndrome, this may significantly reduce or eliminate CPAP dependence.
A thorough airway evaluation is part of determining candidacy.
How long before I can eat normally again?
Immediately after surgery, patients follow a liquid or soft-food diet to protect healing bones.
Most patients gradually return to more normal chewing between 4–6 weeks, depending on healing progress. Our surgical team will provide detailed dietary instructions to support safe recovery at each stage.
When can I return to work, school, or exercise?
Many patients return to school or non-strenuous work within 1-2 weeks.
Strenuous physical activity and contact sports should be avoided until cleared by your surgeon – typically around 4–6 weeks or longer depending on healing.
Every recovery timeline is individualized to ensure long-term stability.
At what age can orthognathic surgery be performed?
Jaw surgery is usually recommended once facial growth is complete, often in the late teens or early adulthood.
In some situations, earlier intervention may be appropriate if there is a significant functional concern. A consultation and imaging evaluation help determine the right timing.
What is the Cost of Orthognathic Surgery?
Dr. Loetscher will perform the majority of orthognathic surgery in our outpatient surgery facility. This provides a clean, controlled environment as well as a major cost savings to our patients by eliminating the hospital-associated fees. There are several factors going into the cost of Orthognathic Surgery:
- Pre- and Post-operative orthodontics. Orthognathic surgery is done in conjunction with orthodontics. Orthodontic fees in the area run approximately $5,000 – $6,500.
- The surgery itself (see below)
- The time off of school or work, 7-14 days
- Insurance Coverage: About 70% of our patients have insurance that covers some of the costs of the surgery. The Surgical fee itself:
Global Orthognathic Surgery Fees February 2026
We have established “Global Fees” for our Orthognathic Surgery patients. The global fees cover the surgeon’s fee, anesthesiologist’s fee, and all surgery center fees, including pre-op appointments and follow-up appointments for the first year. 
Note: Surcharge for a 3-piece maxilla upper jaw modification for severe open-bite closure is an additional $3,300.
*Asymmetry Surcharge: Virtual Treatment Planning – $3,400
These fees represent the combined collection from the patient and their insurance company. We require a deposit to schedule. Most insurance carriers will not disclose the amounts they will pay for the procedure until it has been performed. Pending insurance approval – your amount paid prior to your surgery may be decreased, depending upon your insurance.
We will file with your insurance for reimbursement of all reasonable items, including the surgeon’s and anesthesiologist’s fees, and supplies. This will be reimbursed upon receipt.
Related Links
References: Airway
- Jeffery Rouse: Sleep Prosthodontics: A New Vision for Dentistry. Inside Dentistry, Pg 60-. July 2013
- Jeffrey S. Rouse: Sleep Prosthodontics: Understanding Myofascial Pain. A new paradigm for examining TMJ disorder. Inside Dentistry. Dec 2013. Pg 35 –
- Reddy et al: The Sleeping Brain: Harnessing the Power of the Glymphatic System through Lifestyle Choices. Brain Science: nov 2020 10(11), pg 868-
Orthognathic Surgery Treatment Planning
- John P Stella, Mark R Streater, Bruce N Epker, Douglas P Sinn: Predictability of Upper Lip Soft Tissue Changes with Maxillary Advancement. JOMS 47:697-703, 1989.
- Albert E. Carlotti, Peter H Aschaffenburg, Stephen Schendel: Facial Changes Assoc with Surgical Advancement of the Lip and Maxilla. JOMS 44:593-596, 1986
- Fred L Hackney, Gary J Nishioka, Joseph E Van Sickels: Frontal Soft Tissue Morphology with the Double V-Y Closure following LeFort I. JOMS 46:850-855, 1988
- R. Scott Conley, Scott B Boyd: Facial Soft Tissue Changes Following Maxillomandibular Advancement for Treatment of OSA: JOMS 65:1332-1340, 2007
- S Vasudavan, Y Jayaratne, B Padwa: Nasolabial Soft Tissue Changes after LeFort I Advancement JOMS: 70:e270-e277, 2012
- Patrick J Louis, R Brinks Austin, Peter D Waite, Christopher S. Matthews: Soft Tissue Changes of Upper Lip Associated with Maxillary Advancement in OSA Patients. JOMS 59:151-156, 2001
- Sergio Olate, Carlos Zaror, J Blythe M Mommaerts: A systematic review of Soft-to-hard tissue ratios in Orthognathic Surgery. Part III. Double Jaw Procedures. J Cranio-maxillofacial Surgery. 44(10), oct 2016. 1599-1606
- Alan C Jensen, Peter M Sinclair, Larry M Wolford: Soft Tissue Changes assoc with double jaw surgery. Amer J Orodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. 101(3), 266-275. March 1992
