07
Feb
An introduction to life-changing jaw surgery that supports optimal healing, aesthetics, and lasting health
Multiple Board-certified plastic and cranio-maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Derek Steinbacher is dedicated to positively changing patients’ lives through advanced and highly aesthetic surgical procedures. Dr. Steinbacher has distinguished himself as a globally recognized authority in one of the most complex and challenging treatments to do well: orthognathic or jaw surgery.
An introduction to aesthetic jaw surgery
“Orthognathic” is quite literally derived from the Greek words for “straighten” (“ortho”) and “gnathos” (“jaw”). So, this procedure involves correcting severe jaw-related skeletal imbalances that can influence everything from how we breathe and sleep to how we talk and look. From our office in Guilford, Connecticut, Dr. Steinbacher applies his considerable technical aptitude and artistic talent to achieve optimal outcomes that support lasting, healthy function and an attractive appearance.
Additionally, our advanced practice boasts several cutting-edge diagnostic, computer-aided technologies that further support accurate, 3-D treatment planning and patient communication. These diagnostics inform precise treatments that effectively address the root structural and anatomical imbalances, resolve their resulting complications, and ensure that the patient is well-informed about their options for treatment and what to expect at every step in the process.
Actual Patient Results
Dr. Steinbacher also advocates for multi-disciplinary and “surgery-first” approaches as appropriate. The latter innovative technique bypasses the traditional method of pre-surgical orthodontic treatment and instead focuses on collaboration with an orthodontist before treatment. This approach to pre-operatively defining the position of the jawbone is designed to significantly reduce total treatment time while increasing patients’ satisfaction with the process. However, surgery-first treatment also demands a highly-skilled surgeon with substantial expertise in orthognathic procedures like Dr. Steinbacher.
Typically, techniques that may be recommended to properly align and reposition the jaws and teeth include:
- Le Fort Osteotomy to reposition the upper jaw by moving different facial bones
- Bilateral Sagittal Split Osteotomy (BSSO) to reposition the mandible or lower jaw for the correction of conditions such as cleft palate, open bite, and crossbite
- Genioplasty or chin surgery to advance or push back the chin or support side-to-side and vertical changes that address overly short, long, or asymmetrical chins
- Adjunctive procedures such as contouring the jawline, implants, cheekbone reduction or augmentation, “double chin” liposuction, fat grafts, rhinoplasty (nose job), blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), skin treatments (chemical peels, tightening), lip procedures, fillers
- Orthodontic treatments in conjunction with orthodontists; for instance, Invisalign® clear aligner therapy
As indicated, numerous cosmetic, health, and functional imbalances and conditions may be treated with advanced jaw surgery. Similarly, there are numerous techniques and approaches that are tailored to the unique needs and goals of each patient.
Accordingly, the specific steps in the process can vary substantially from patient to patient. We will advise on what to expect at every stage of treatment, starting with the “presurgical” orthodontic phase (as needed) and additional preparation in the days and weeks leading up to your procedure.
Adherence to such instruction and the use of our modern, precision and conservative techniques promotes optimal healing with minimal side effects and reduces post-treatment complications while improving patient satisfaction with their results.
With that being said, aftercare is essential. It includes an initial soft food diet, application of a compress to ease swelling, immediate use of rinses to support good oral hygiene, abstinence from strenuous exercise or activities as advised for a period of time, and maintaining follow-up appointments with your doctors. We also advocate several herbal and homeopathic remedies that help speed and optimize recovery.
The structure of the jaws can impact every aspect of our lives. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Steinbacher today to learn more about jaw surgeries and related procedures in Guilford, CT, by calling (203) 453-6635.
Dr. Derek Steinbacher has devoted his life to
aesthetic and life-changing surgery. He is an artistic and meticulous surgeon who draws patients
from around the world due to his perspective, unmatched skill, and exceptional results. He is able
to uniquely address the face (facelift +
rejuvenation), jawline (orthognathic; chin; contouring; implants), nasal (rhinoplasty), eyelids, profile, neck, breast, and body with
one-of-a-kind results.
He is a multiple Board-Certified, Fellowship-Trained Plastic, Cosmetic, and Cranio-Maxillofacial
Surgeon. He is Fellow of the most prestigious surgical organizations, including the Society of
Plastic Surgeons, the American College of Surgeons, the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, the
Academy of Facial
Plastic Surgery, Societies of Craniofacial and Maxillofacial Surgery, the Aesthetic
Society, and the Rhinoplasty Society. He has served as Full-Professor
of Plastic Surgery at Yale, including Director of the Cleft and Craniofacial Program, and Chief of
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Dr. Steinbacher has unparalleled training at premier institutions,
including Harvard
and Johns Hopkins. His
perspective brings together the best aspects of many distinct – but related fields – and it is this
intersection of scope and expertise, in addition to an artistic eye, which enables excellent
comprehensive results.
Dr. Steinbacher's approach: technical acumen, meticulousness, and penchant for combining art and
science, together with his eye for balance, beauty, and harmony, helps achieve outcomes that greatly
improve a person's confidence, health, and overall quality of life. Patients can trust that they are
always in good hands!