Mandibular advancement surgery is typically performed after the jaw and face have completed their growth, generally between 15 and 18 years of age. This timing is crucial to ensure the long-term stability and effectiveness of the surgical correction.
When is Mandibular Advancement Surgery Performed?
The precise timing for mandibular advancement surgery, a type of corrective jaw surgery, is primarily determined by the completion of facial and jaw development. Operating before growth is finished could lead to the individual outgrowing the correction, necessitating further intervention.
While individual growth patterns vary, the jaw and face usually cease growing around:
- 15 years of age for females
- 18 years of age for males
Therefore, surgery is typically scheduled once these growth plates have matured and skeletal stability is achieved.
Why Wait Until Growth Stops?
Waiting for skeletal maturity is paramount for several reasons:
- Prevention of Outgrowing Correction: If surgery is performed while the jaw is still growing, the treated area might continue to develop, potentially reversing the surgical results and re-creating the original misalignment.
- Stable Foundation: A fully grown jaw provides a stable and predictable foundation for the surgical changes, allowing for more precise planning and a more permanent outcome.
- Predictable Results: Once growth is complete, the surgeon can accurately plan the new jaw position without having to account for future unpredictable growth spurts.
The Role of Comprehensive Assessment
Determining the ideal time for mandibular advancement surgery involves a thorough assessment by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, often in collaboration with an orthodontist. This assessment may include:
- X-rays: Lateral cephalometric X-rays and hand-wrist X-rays can help assess skeletal maturity by examining growth plates.
- Growth Charts: Tracking an individual's growth over time provides insights into their growth patterns.
- Physical Examination: A clinical evaluation of facial features and jaw structure.
What is Mandibular Advancement Surgery?
Mandibular advancement surgery, also known as bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO) or orthognathic surgery, is a procedure designed to correct an underdeveloped or recessed lower jaw (mandible). It involves carefully repositioning the lower jaw forward to improve:
- Bite Alignment: Correcting issues like an overbite.
- Chewing and Speaking Function: Enhancing oral function.
- Breathing: Improving airflow, especially for conditions like sleep apnea.
- Facial Balance and Aesthetics: Achieving greater harmony in facial features.
This surgery is often part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes orthodontic treatment (braces or aligners) before and after the surgical procedure to align the teeth properly with the newly positioned jaw.
| Key Consideration | Description |
|---|---|
| Growth Completion | Surgery occurs after the jaw and face have finished growing. |
| Typical Age Range | Generally between 15 and 18 years of age. |
| Individualized Timing | Based on unique growth patterns, not just chronological age. |
| Multidisciplinary Care | Coordinated effort between orthodontists and oral surgeons for optimal results. |
For more detailed information on corrective jaw surgery, you can consult reputable sources such as the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.
