When misaligned jaws make eating, speaking, or smiling uncomfortable, orthognathic (jaw) surgery can change daily life. It fixes problems that braces or Invisalign® aligners alone cannot correct: severe bite issues, jaw asymmetry, and facial imbalance among them.
At Ricci Orthodontic Studio in Doral, FL, we coordinate closely with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon from pre-surgical orthodontics through recovery. Advanced imaging and private treatment rooms keep the process accurate and comfortable.
Jaw surgery rebuilds function and often boosts confidence at the same time.
Dr. Alyssa Ricci partners directly with the surgeon on every case, using detailed imaging and orthodontic planning to set the jaws in the right position before the operating room. That collaboration produces results that look natural and stay stable.
Our role is broader than straightening teeth; we align the facial framework so symmetry and comfort last. Whether you are here to resolve jaw pain, refine appearance, or breathe better at night, you will be heard and supported throughout.
Orthognathic surgery may be appropriate if you have:
During your consultation Dr. Ricci will examine you in detail and explain whether surgical orthodontics is the right route for long-term health, comfort, and facial balance.
Chewing, speaking, and even breathing become easier after the jaws are repositioned. Realignment restores balanced mechanics so daily activities feel natural again. For patients with sleep-disordered breathing, jaw surgery can meaningfully improve breathing and sleep quality.
A misaligned jaw throws off facial proportions. Surgical correction rebalances the profile and smile to match the patient’s own features.
Uncorrected jaw misalignment can wear certain teeth excessively, strain the TMJ, and stress the gums. Surgery protects oral health by restoring proper bite mechanics for the long haul.
Months before surgery, Dr. Ricci aligns the teeth with braces or Invisalign® aligners to create the right foundation. You will visit our Doral office regularly during this phase.
After the teeth are positioned, the surgeon performs the operation under general anesthesia, repositioning the jawbones for balanced function and appearance.
Dr. Ricci communicates with the surgical team throughout to keep alignment exact.
We explain pre-op instructions and recovery expectations ahead of time so there are no surprises. Most patients find the experience more manageable than they expected, given proper preparation.
Full recovery generally runs 6 to 12 weeks. Swelling goes down gradually and jaw function improves week by week. The jaw may be temporarily stabilized for about 4 to 6 weeks to protect healing.
Most people take 1 to 2 weeks off from school or work and eat soft foods while the bones mend. We stay in contact during recovery to track progress.
After healing, you return to our studio for final bite adjustments with braces or Invisalign® aligners. When treatment ends, we include a complimentary headshot session so you can show off the result.
Surgical jaw repositioning can open airway space and reduce sleep apnea symptoms. Dr. Ricci and the surgical team evaluate whether jaw position is restricting breathing and whether correction could produce more comfortable, consistent nighttime breathing.
For patients who want an alternative to CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure), jaw surgery targets the underlying airway structure instead of managing symptoms nightly. CPAP works well for many people, but some struggle with mask discomfort, dryness, or leaks.
At your consultation, Dr. Ricci can tell you whether surgical correction fits your anatomy, breathing concerns, and overall goals.
