Overall Research
Within a wider publication on dentofacial deformity, results featured from a number of studies on orthognathic surgery and breathing. The author highlights measurement limitations and describes the results as mixed.
No significant change prevailed throughout the study, although there were cases which showed breathing benefits. They may have derived from improved airflow and greater natural air contact with the oral mucosa.
A more precise study focused on cleft palate surgery, which is in a sense orthognathic surgery. Also a condition where medical advantages might be more likely to be seen, compared to more traditional cases.
Research results were again mixed. They stated “Orthognathic surgery modifies speech nasalance of some subjects with cleft, perhaps because of an increase in internal nose size. This may also improve nasal patency for breathing.”
Another study looked solely at the effects of orthognathic surgery on speech improvement, in non-cleft individuals. 20 years of medical database entries provided a substantial study, although the data by nature lacked context.
They did not identify clear evidence linking orthognathic surgery to correcting speech discrepancies. We should however bear in mind that patients concerned may not have had, or openly reported speech issues.
There were still benefits for a percentage of patients and the core conclusion was a need for further research. This needs to be carefully thought through, due to a variation in the individual reasons for choosing orthognathic surgery.
Personal Diagnosis
Jaw deformity can be detrimental to breathing, clear speech, or hearing. Cases arise where infection is increased, pain is caused, or difficulty chewing food.
A causal link is still less than common. If you have a condition which you feel may be linked to jaw deformity, this should be discussed in depth with a maxillofacial consultant, investigated through science and knowledge.
If there is a case for surgery to your jaw making a medical difference, that could be valuable. The critical need still remains for medical professionals not to create unsuitable expectations.
Neither is there anything wrong with choosing orthognathic surgery for personal, or aesthetic reasons, which can in themselves be life changing.
As a Harley Street centre offering this specialist care, we still follow a proven principle. The majority of those referred to, or visiting our clinic for orthognathic surgery are not medically focused cases.
All medical issues, or benefits are however investigated in detail and discussed with our patients. Orthognathic surgery by nature is unique for each patient, no two jaws, or the people they belong to are the same.
In such a key area, treatment should also be to an exceptional standard. For medical, or personal reasons, a change to your face deserves fine care.
