Corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a powerful solution for those experiencing jaw misalignment, chronic jaw pain, or an unbalanced facial structure. At Coulee Region Implant & Oral Surgery Center (CRIOS) in La Crosse and Onalaska, WI, our skilled oral surgeons specialize in restoring both function and aesthetics, allowing patients to speak, eat, and smile with renewed confidence.
What Is Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons like Drs. Polzin, Sorenson, and Timm, corrective jaw surgery realigns the upper and/or lower jaw to improve bite, alleviate discomfort, and enhance facial symmetry. Common jaw issues that warrant surgery include:
- Chronic TMJ pain and tension headaches
- Recessed or protruding jaw
- Facial asymmetry or birth defects
- Difficulty chewing, open bite, or speech issues
- Breathing problems or sleep apnea
Types of Jaw Surgery: Tailored to Your Needs
Depending on your alignment, surgery may involve different approaches:
- Maxillary Osteotomy (Upper Jaw): Useful for correcting a receded upper jaw, open bite, or crossbite.
- Mandibular Osteotomy / Setback: Used to adjust a protruding lower jaw, improving chin definition and facial harmony, while boosting self-esteem and psychosocial well-being.
- Le Fort I Osteotomy: Addresses midface deformities, malocclusion (overbite/underbite), open bite, or even sleep apnea by repositioning the maxilla.
- Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA): Moves both jaws forward, especially effective for obstructive sleep apnea relief and correcting bite problems.
Why Choose CRIOS for Jaw Correction?
At CRIOS, our team, including Dr. Les Timm, Dr. Chuck Polzin, and Dr. Adam Sorenson, brings advanced training and a commitment to excellence in oral surgery care. HereтАЩs what sets us apart:
- Highly trained oral surgeons with expertise in jaw surgery, implants, TMJ disorders, and anesthesia.
- Minimally invasive techniques and cutting-edge technologies to ensure precision, comfort, and reliable outcomes.
- Convenient La Crosse and Onalaska locations, serving the greater Coulee Region community.
What to Expect: The Journey of Jaw Surgery
1. Consultation & Planning
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation at CRIOS, where oral surgeons collaborate with your orthodontist, use digital imaging and X-rays, and design a tailored treatment plan.
2. Surgery
Under general anesthesia, the surgeon repositions the jaw(s) into proper alignment achieving better chewing function, balanced facial structure, and improved comfort.
3. Recovery & Aftercare
- The first week is often the most intense. Expect swelling, soreness, and difficulty speaking or eating.
- Most patients follow a soft or liquid diet for several weeks, with full recovery typically spanning 4тАУ8 weeks.
- Temporary facial numbness can occur but often resolves within three months.
Benefits: Beyond the Physical
Corrective jaw surgery offers life-changing advantages:
- Functional Benefits: Improved chewing, speech, breathing, and overall jaw comfort.
- Aesthetic Gains: A more harmonious facial profile with better balance between upper and lower facial structures.
- Psychological Uplift: Enhanced self-esteem, social confidence, and overall mental well-being.
What We Strive For at CRIOS
We believe in restoring not just your jaw, but your lifeтАЩs balance. Whether you’re struggling with chronic TMJ discomfort, bite issues, or facial disproportions, our surgeons at CRIOS deliver compassionate, precision-driven care tailored for optimal function and aesthetics.
Conclusion
Corrective jaw surgery at CRIOS is about reclaiming comfort, function, and facial harmony. With expert surgical care, personalized planning, and a supportive environment in La Crosse and Onalaska, your journey toward restored balance and confidence begins here.
Ready to take the next step? Schedule your consultation today with our oral surgeon experts and discover how we can transform your life through jaw correction.
