Jaw Surgery Oahu
 If you're struggling with chronic bite issues, facial imbalance, or jaw discomfort, jaw surgery in Oahu
may be the solution. Also known as orthognathic surgery, this corrective procedure addresses functional and aesthetic concerns related to jaw misalignment. At Pacific Maxillofacial Center, we provide advanced corrective jaw surgery in Honolulu to restore balance, comfort, and confidence.
What Is Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)?
Orthognathic surgery—commonly referred to as jaw surgery—is a corrective procedure that repositions the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both to resolve alignment issues. It is designed to treat structural concerns that cannot be corrected by orthodontics alone.
Jaw misalignments can present as:
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Underbite - Lower jaw extends too far forward.
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Overbite - Upper jaw protrudes excessively over the lower jaw.
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Open Bite - Front teeth do not touch when back teeth are closed.
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Crossbite - Upper and lower jaws do not align properly side to side. |
These conditions can impair chewing, speech, breathing, and facial symmetry. While some may seek facial surgery in Oahu for cosmetic reasons, the core goal of orthognathic surgery is to restore function and balance.
Do You Need Jaw Surgery?
Jaw surgery is often recommended when braces or orthodontic treatment alone are insufficient. Candidates typically experience chronic issues like:
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Jaw Pain - Persistent discomfort or clicking in the jaw joints.
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Difficulty Chewing or Speaking - Misalignment that interferes with everyday activities.
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Breathing Challenges - Obstructed airways or sleep apnea linked to jaw position.
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Facial Asymmetry - Noticeable imbalance due to structural irregularities. |
You may be referred by an orthodontist after braces fail to achieve proper bite alignment. Common patients include teenagers finishing orthodontic care and adults dealing with long-term misalignment.
A surgical evaluation involves bite analysis and detailed imaging to determine if jaw realignment surgery in Oahu is right for you.
Types of Jaw Problems Treated
Our orthognathic surgeons in Honolulu treat a wide range of structural jaw concerns, including:
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Underbite - Causes functional and aesthetic challenges.
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Overbite - May result in excessive tooth wear or jaw strain.
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Open Bite - Leads to speech difficulty and poor bite force.
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Crossbite - Can lead to jaw shifting and asymmetry.
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Protruding Jaw - Disrupts facial balance and may impair function.
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Receded Jaw or Chin - Often linked with sleep apnea and aesthetic imbalance. |
Whether the condition affects the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both, jaw alignment procedures can significantly improve oral health, facial aesthetics, and overall quality of life.
What to Expect During the Process
Corrective jaw surgery in Oahu follows a multi-step process tailored to each patient. Here’s a typical treatment journey:
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Initial consultation involving bite analysis and 3D imaging.
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Coordination with your orthodontist for pre-surgical braces or aligners.
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Surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia in a hospital or surgical center.
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Post-operative recovery with dietary adjustments and swelling management.
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Follow-up visits and post-surgical orthodontics to refine the bite. |
Recovery involves several phases. Swelling and discomfort are common during the first 1–2 weeks. Most patients follow a soft-food diet for several weeks post-op. Full recovery, including orthodontic refinement, can take several months, but the results are transformative both functionally and aesthetically.
Why Choose Our Jaw Surgeons in Oahu
Choosing the right team for corrective jaw surgery in Honolulu is critical to a successful outcome. At Pacific Maxillofacial Center, we offer:
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Board-Certified Expertise - Our oral and maxillofacial surgeons are certified and highly trained in orthognathic surgery.
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Advanced Technology - 3D imaging, virtual surgical planning, and hospital-grade facilities.
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Multidisciplinary Coordination - Seamless integration with orthodontists and medical professionals.
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Local Hospital Privileges - Our surgeons are affiliated with trusted hospitals in the Honolulu and Oahu area. |
From diagnosis through recovery, our experienced jaw surgery team ensures safety, comfort, and outstanding outcomes.
Common Questions About Jaw Surgery in Hawaii
Does jaw surgery hurt?
Jaw surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Post-surgical discomfort is expected but manageable with prescribed medications and typically subsides within 1–2 weeks.
What is the downtime after jaw surgery?
Initial recovery involves swelling and a soft-food diet for about 1–2 weeks. Most patients return to school or work within 2–3 weeks, though complete healing and orthodontic adjustment may take several months.
Will insurance cover jaw surgery?
In many cases, insurance may cover jaw surgery when it’s deemed medically necessary. We recommend calling 808-585-8455 for help verifying your benefits and coverage details.
Can jaw surgery fix both function and appearance?
Yes. Orthognathic surgery is designed to correct functional issues like misaligned bites and breathing difficulties while also improving facial symmetry and aesthetics.
Are there alternatives to jaw surgery?
In some mild cases, orthodontics or dental appliances may help. However, when the jaw bones themselves are misaligned, surgery is often the only effective solution.
Getting Started – Schedule Your Consultation
Every jaw is different, and a personalized consultation is the first step toward determining if jaw realignment surgery in Oahu is right for you. Our team at Pacific Maxillofacial Center will assess your bite, review imaging, and develop a customized treatment plan.
Call 808-585-8455 to schedule your orthognathic surgery consultation in Hawaii. Our staff can assist with paperwork, records transfer, and insurance verification to make the process seamless. |
