Correcting Jaw Misalignment With Advanced Surgical Care

When bite function and facial harmony are disrupted by jaw misalignment, complex jaw surgery, also known as corrective or orthognathic surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, can deliver transformative, life‑changing results. This procedure is more than just a cosmetic fix or braces. It helps with important problems such as difficulty chewing, speech issues, sleep apnea, and ongoing jaw or joint pain.

At Facial Designs, patients receive care from our certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Dr. VanSurksum has degrees in both dentistry and medicine and years of experience treating patients with orthognathic surgery. As one of Minnesota’s only Category 1 sedation dental practices, we offer hospital-level safety, enabling us to perform some orthognathic surgeries in our office and potentially save you thousands of dollars. This ensures that every patient receives the best surgical care and comfort, regardless of insurance status.

What Causes Jaw Misalignment?

Jaw misalignment can develop from:

• Genetics
• Childhood growth patterns
• Trauma or injury
• TMJ disorders
• Developmental abnormalities

These issues often lead to functional problems that affect daily life.

When Jaw Surgery Becomes Necessary

Corrective jaw surgery may be recommended if you experience:

• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Chronic jaw pain or TMJ symptoms
• Facial asymmetry
• Speech difficulties
• Sleep apnea or airway obstruction
• Open bite, underbite, or overbite

When orthodontics alone cannot correct the underlying skeletal issue, jaw surgery becomes the most effective solution.

How a Board‑Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Approaches Jaw Surgery

Corrective jaw surgery requires advanced training, precision, and a deep understanding of facial anatomy. Our surgeon uses:

• 3D imaging and digital planning
• Collaboration with your orthodontist
• Minimally invasive surgical techniques
• Category 1 anesthesia for safety and comfort

This comprehensive approach ensures predictable, long‑lasting results.

Types of Corrective Jaw Surgery

Corrective jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, moves one or both jaws. This helps create a healthier, better-aligned environment.

Corrective jaw surgery is usually performed in collaboration with an orthodontist, who may choose to have you use braces before and after surgery. This helps the teeth and jaws fit together correctly.

Common types of corrective jaw procedures include:

Upper Jaw (Maxillary) Surgery –Corrects open bites, crossbites, and midface deficiencies.

Lower Jaw (Mandibular) Surgery – Addresses underbites, overbites, and jaw recession.

Chin Surgery (Genioplasty) – Improves facial balance and profile.

Combined Procedures – Used for complex cases requiring multi‑jaw correction.

Every surgical plan is tailored to the patient’s unique body and goals. This is why the skill and training of the surgical team are so important for getting the best, long-lasting results.

What Patients Can Expect

Consultation & Planning – Your surgeon evaluates your bite, facial structure, and airway using advanced imaging. We will collaborate with your orthodontist during this phase.

Pre‑Surgical Orthodontics – Braces or aligners prepare your teeth for ideal alignment.

Surgery Day – Performed under general anesthesia in either our state‑of‑the‑art surgical suite, or in a hospital if an overnight stay is required.

Recovery – Most patients return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks, with full healing requiring several months.

Post-Surgical Orthodontics – A period of 4-6 months of post-surgical tooth movement will likely be required to fine tune the way your teeth bite together, now that the jaws are positioned correctly by surgery.

Life‑Changing Benefits of Corrective Jaw Surgery

Many patients are surprised to learn that the advantages of complex jaw surgery reach far beyond improved facial appearance. The procedure delivers significant functional benefits, including:

• Improved chewing efficiency and bite stability
• Clearer, more consistent speech
• Relief from TMJ‑related pain or dysfunction
• A more open airway for patients with obstructive sleep apnea
• Reduced uneven tooth wear and better long‑term dental health

By correcting the underlying skeletal imbalance, jaw surgery creates healthier, more efficient jaw mechanics, supporting both oral and overall wellness long after recovery.

Serving Minnesota & Surrounding Communities

At Facial Designs, your comfort and safety are at the center of every jaw surgery we perform.  Our skilled surgical team and trained anesthesia providers work well together.

We proudly support patients from across Minnesota, including our Twin Cities friends and neighbors, as well as those traveling from surrounding states for expert surgical care. Whether you’re driving in from hours away or visiting us from out of state, our goal is to have you walking out with a brand‑new smile that looks natural and feels amazing.

For patients traveling longer distances, we also offer nearby lodging options to make your visit as comfortable and stress‑free as possible.

Two office locations to serve you better.  I would remove this sentence. Pts will only be seen in Minnetonka for this.

We are experts in jaw surgery, dental implants, and facial cosmetic procedures. Our team has fellowships and decades of experience as general dentists and board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Patients trust Facial Designs for accurate diagnostics, transformative surgical outcomes, and compassionate, comprehensive care.

We know that jaw surgery can be overwhelming. Our goal is to make the experience calm and stress-free for you and your loved ones. From the moment you arrive at our modern surgical facility, our team is with you. We focus on your comfort, well-being, and a successful recovery.

Ready to Restore Balance and Function?

Schedule a consultation with our board‑certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon to explore your jaw surgery options.