At Straight Orthodontics we do not offer surgical orthodontics, however we will refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is a dental specialist who treats a wide variety of issues regarding the jaw, face, neck, head and soft tissues inside the mouth.

When our patients suffer from skeletal discrepancies, either from existing concerns or emergencies due to trauma suffered by the face, at Straight Orthodontics, we will refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

When the lower and upper jaws are not aligned properly, they can negatively impact bite, facial appearance and functionality.

For the most ideal orthodontic results, it’s best for the jaws to be properly positioned prior to beginning your orthodontic treatment.

Surgical orthodontic treatments include:

Chin Advancement (Genioplasty)

This surgery is also known as a chin augmentation and is designed to improve the appearance of the jaw and chin. 

The common reason for having a genioplasty is the feeling of being unhappy with your chin’s appearance; however this surgery is commonly paired with jaw surgery to improve the position of the lower and upper jaw.

Chin implants are also on offer for patients who wish to enlarge the appearance or push forwards their chin.

Class III Maxillary Advancement and Mandibular Set Back

The surgery to treat a Class III Malocclusion occurs more frequently when there is deficient maxillary growth, other causes include excessive mandibular growth and maxillary trauma.

Common surgery to treat a Class III Malocclusion involves a maxillary advancement (move the upper jaw forwards) where the upper jaw is broken into different pieces and shifted forwards. Alongside this, the mandible is set back, as a section of the bone is cut away.

Maxillary Impaction (Gummy Smile)

Gummy smiles are quite often caused by an excess of vertical upper jaw, which causes a patient to have a longer face. The surgery to reduce the gummy smile, is to remove a part of the maxillary bone (upper jaw), which shifts the maxillary upwards to reduce the visible gum.

Surgically Assisted Maxillary Expansion (S.A.M.E)

Also referred to as upper jaw expansion surgery, where the goal is to increase the size of the upper jaw. Surgically Assisted Maxillary Expansion is required when a patient has finished growing and the upper jaw is too narrow to accommodate orthodontic treatment.

Class II Mandibular Advancement Surgery

When the upper and lower jaws need repositioning into the correct positions relative to one another, the Class II Mandibular Advancement Surgery can help. Orthodontic treatment is usually doubled up with Class II Mandibular Advancement Surgery, to achieve a better bite and facial appearance.


Frequently Asked Questions

Genioplasty, also known as chin surgery or mentoplasty, is a surgical procedure to reshape or reposition the chin for aesthetic or functional reasons. It can involve chin augmentation to enhance size or projection, chin reduction to decrease size, or chin repositioning to correct asymmetry. The procedure is performed by making incisions inside the mouth or under the chin, reshaping or repositioning the chin bone, and closing the incisions. Genioplasty is typically done by oral and maxillofacial surgeons or plastic surgeons specialising in facial surgery. A thorough consultation is necessary to discuss goals, risks, and potential complications.

Genioplasty can benefit individuals who have specific concerns or conditions related to their chin’s appearance or function. Some groups of people who may benefit from genioplasty include:

  • Individuals with a receding or small chin: Genioplasty can enhance the size and projection of a small or recessed chin, improving facial harmony and balance.
  • Individuals with a prominent or protruding chin: Genioplasty can reduce the size or prominence of a large or protruding chin, creating a more balanced and proportionate facial profile.
  • Individuals with chin asymmetry: Genioplasty can correct chin asymmetry, where the chin is horizontally misaligned, improving facial symmetry and aesthetics.
  • Individuals with facial disharmony: Genioplasty can be performed as part of a comprehensive facial contouring procedure to achieve better facial balance and harmony, often in conjunction with other facial surgeries like rhinoplasty or orthognathic surgery.
  • Individuals with functional issues related to the chin: Genioplasty can address functional problems such as difficulty with proper oral function, speaking, or chewing that are caused by chin abnormalities.

It’s important to note that genioplasty is a surgical procedure, and the decision to undergo it should be made in consultation with a qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon or plastic surgeon experienced in facial surgery. They can assess individual concerns, perform a comprehensive evaluation, and discuss the potential benefits, risks, and limitations of genioplasty based on the specific case.

The recovery time for genioplasty can vary depending on the individual and the specific details of the procedure performed. Here is a general timeline that can give you an idea of the recovery process:

First week: Swelling and bruising peak. A soft-food diet is usually recommended, and oral hygiene instructions are given.

1-2 weeks: Swelling decreases, and patients transition to a regular diet. Sutures may be removed.

2-4 weeks: Swelling continues to subside. Some patients can resume work but should avoid strenuous activities.

6 weeks to several months: Most swelling resolves, and the initial healing is complete. Final results may take months to fully appear.

It’s important to note that these timeframes are general estimates, and individual recovery experiences may vary. Following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions, attending follow-up appointments, and maintaining good oral hygiene will contribute to a smoother recovery process. It’s advisable to consult with your oral and maxillofacial surgeon or plastic surgeon to get specific information regarding your expected recovery timeline based on your unique circumstances.