What you can expect

Before the procedure

Jaw surgery is performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Surgery is usually done under general anesthesia. Surgery takes place in the hospital and requires a two- to four-day stay.

During the procedure

Surgery usually can be performed inside your mouth, so no facial scars show on your chin, jaw or around the mouth. However, sometimes small incisions may be required outside your mouth.

Your surgeon makes cuts in the jawbones and moves them into the correct position. Once your jaw movement is completed, tiny bone plates, screws, wires and rubber bands may be used to secure the bones into their new position. These screws — which are smaller than a bracket used for braces — become integrated into the bone structure over time.

In some cases, extra bone may be added to the jaw. Your surgeon transfers the bone from your hip, leg or rib and secures it with plates and screws. In other cases, bone may be reshaped to provide a better fit.

Jaw surgery may be performed on the upper jaw, lower jaw, chin or any combination of these.