Facial & Jaw Surgery
Corrective Jaw Surgery in Falls Church, VA
If your bite, breathing, or facial balance has been affected by the way your jaw fits together, corrective jaw surgery in Falls Church, VA can help restore both function and confidence. Also known as orthognathic surgery, this procedure carefully repositions the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both so your teeth meet properly and your face looks balanced. At Merrifield Oral Surgery, our board-certified surgical team plans every case with 3D imaging, and we welcome new patients who are just starting to explore their options.
Call (703) 639-0027What Is Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Corrective jaw surgery is recommended when the upper and lower jaws don't line up the way they should. This can make it hard to chew, speak clearly, or breathe comfortably at night. Some patients are born with a jaw that grew differently than expected; others develop misalignment over time, or notice it becomes more pronounced as they get older. Corrective jaw surgery is different from surgery to repair a jaw right after an injury. If you're dealing with a recent accident or trauma, our Facial Trauma page covers that care instead.
Jaw surgery often works alongside orthodontic treatment, so your surgeon and orthodontist coordinate closely before, during, and after the procedure. To see the full range of surgical care we provide, visit our Facial & Jaw Surgery page.
Benefits & Value of Corrective Jaw Surgery
When your jaws are properly aligned, everyday tasks like eating and speaking get easier, and many patients notice their bite feels more stable and comfortable. Realigning the jaw can also relieve strain on the jaw joint itself. If you're already managing jaw joint pain or clicking, our TMJ Disorders page explains how the two concerns often connect.
Corrective jaw surgery is designed to support:
- Easier chewing, speaking, and breathing
- A straighter, more balanced facial appearance
- Reduced strain on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles
- A stable foundation for long-term dental health
- A bite that works with your orthodontic treatment instead of against it
What to Expect
Consultation & 3D Surgical Planning
Your first visit starts with a thorough exam and an honest conversation about your goals and concerns. We use 3D CBCT imaging to map your jaw structure precisely, which helps your surgeon plan the exact movements needed well before surgery day. If you're already working with an orthodontist, we coordinate the timeline together so your treatment stays on track from start to finish.
Surgery Day & Sedation Options
Corrective jaw surgery is typically performed with IV sedation or general anesthesia, chosen based on the complexity of your case. Our goal on surgery day is simple: keep you comfortable and put at ease from the moment you arrive. We'll walk you through exactly what to expect ahead of time, so nothing feels unfamiliar or rushed.
Recovery & Post-Op Follow-Up
Healing from jaw surgery takes some patience. Most patients follow a soft diet for the first few weeks while the jaw settles into its new position, and mild swelling in the early days is normal. Our team calls to check on you after surgery, and we see you for follow-up visits to track healing and answer any questions that come up along the way.
Why Choose Merrifield Oral Surgery for Jaw Surgery
Dr. Margaret K. Pham is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon with experience in orthognathic surgery, and she works closely with each patient to build a plan that fits their specific jaw structure and goals. All of our surgeons are board-certified, so you're in skilled, experienced hands from your first consultation through your final follow-up visit. Our office also offers care in Spanish, which helps us communicate clearly with more families in the Falls Church community. We're happy to talk through payment options and what to ask your insurance carrier during your consultation.
Questions
FAQ
Am I a candidate for corrective jaw surgery?
You may be a candidate if you have trouble biting or chewing, jaw pain, difficulty breathing through your nose, or a visible imbalance between your upper and lower jaw. Many candidates have already worked with an orthodontist to prepare their teeth for surgery. The best way to know for sure is a consultation and 3D imaging review with our surgical team.
Does insurance cover orthognathic surgery?
Coverage depends on your specific plan and whether the surgery is considered medically necessary, such as for breathing or jaw function problems. Our team can help you understand your benefits before treatment begins. Visit our Insurance & Financing page for more detail, or call our office to ask about your specific plan.
How long is recovery after jaw realignment surgery?
Most patients need two to four weeks before returning to work or school, with continued healing over several months as swelling fully resolves. Diet is soft for the first few weeks and gradually returns to normal foods as your jaw stabilizes. Everyone heals at a different pace, so your surgeon will give you a personalized recovery timeline.
What happens if a jaw misalignment goes untreated?
Left untreated, a jaw misalignment can lead to ongoing bite problems, worn or damaged teeth, jaw joint discomfort, and in some cases, breathing difficulties during sleep. It may also make orthodontic treatment less effective on its own. Addressing the misalignment surgically can help resolve these concerns at the source.
Start Your Jaw Surgery Consultation in Falls Church
If you've been living with a bite that doesn't quite fit, or you've been told a jaw misalignment may be affecting your breathing, our board-certified team is ready to talk through your options with you in a calm, personalized consultation.