Jaw misalignment can affect more than just your smile—it can interfere with speaking, chewing, breathing, and facial balance. In many cases, orthodontics alone isn’t enough to correct severe misalignment or skeletal abnormalities. That’s where jaw surgery—also called orthognathic surgery—comes in.
If your surgeon has recommended corrective jaw surgery, you may be wondering about the difference between single jaw surgery and double jaw surgery. Both procedures aim to restore proper alignment, but they differ in scope, recovery, and cost.
In this blog, we’ll break down how each surgery works, their benefits, what recovery looks like, and how jaw surgery in Islamabad offers advanced solutions at an affordable jaw surgery cost.
What Is Jaw Surgery?
Jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is a corrective procedure performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to reposition one or both jaws. It helps fix severe bite problems, jaw asymmetry, and facial disproportion that braces alone cannot correct.
By aligning the jaws correctly, this surgery improves not only appearance but also essential functions such as:
- Chewing and biting
- Breathing and speaking
- Jaw joint (TMJ) comfort
- Facial symmetry and balance
Surgeons in Islamabad use advanced 3D imaging and surgical planning to ensure precision and natural-looking outcomes.
Understanding Single Jaw Surgery:
What Is Single Jaw Surgery?
Single jaw surgery involves adjusting only one of the two jaws — either the upper jaw (maxilla) or the lower jaw (mandible) — to correct issues limited to that specific jaw.
When It’s Needed:
Single jaw surgery is ideal for patients who have:
- A minor underbite or overbite caused by one jaw being misaligned
- Open bite correction limited to one jaw
- Asymmetry that can be resolved by repositioning one jaw
- No airway or structural issues requiring full facial adjustment
Procedure Overview:
- Performed under general anesthesia
- The surgeon makes incisions inside the mouth (no visible scars)
- The jawbone is cut, repositioned, and secured with titanium plates and screws
- Duration: Typically 1.5 to 3 hours
Benefits of Single Jaw Surgery:
- Shorter surgical time and recovery period
- Lower cost compared to double jaw surgery
- Less swelling and post-operative discomfort
- Suitable for mild to moderate misalignments
Limitations:
- Cannot correct complex facial imbalances
- May cause incomplete bite alignment if both jaws are involved in the issue
Understanding Double Jaw Surgery:
What Is Double Jaw Surgery?
Double jaw surgery—also known as bimaxillary orthognathic surgery—involves repositioning both the upper and lower jaws to achieve proper alignment and harmony between the jaws and facial structure.
This is the preferred option for patients with severe skeletal discrepancies or functional issues that affect the entire facial framework.
When It’s Needed:
Double jaw surgery is usually recommended for:
- Severe underbite or overbite
- Open bite involving both jaws
- Facial asymmetry affecting both sides
- Sleep apnea due to a recessed jaw structure
- Speech or chewing difficulties caused by major misalignment
Procedure Overview:
- Performed under general anesthesia
- The surgeon makes internal incisions to adjust both jaws
- The upper jaw (maxilla) may be moved forward, upward, or rotated
- The lower jaw (mandible) may be repositioned backward or forward
- Titanium plates and screws are used to hold the bones in place
- Duration: Typically 4 to 6 hours
Benefits of Double Jaw Surgery:
- Corrects severe jaw and facial imbalance
- Improves breathing, speech, and chewing
- Enhances overall facial aesthetics and symmetry
- Provides lasting functional and cosmetic results
Limitations:
- Longer surgery and recovery period
- More swelling and temporary numbness
- Higher jaw surgery cost compared to single jaw surgery
Comparing Single vs. Double Jaw Surgery:
AspectSingle Jaw SurgeryDouble Jaw SurgeryJaws InvolvedOne (upper or lower)Both upper and lowerSurgical Duration1.5–3 hours4–6 hoursRecovery Time4–6 weeks6–8 weeksComplexity LevelModerateHighAesthetic ImprovementMild to ModerateMajor facial enhancementCost Range (Islamabad)PKR 250,000–400,000PKR 500,000–700,000Function ImprovementLimitedComprehensive
Both procedures are safe and effective when performed by an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The right choice depends on your diagnosis, bite condition, and desired aesthetic results.
Recovery Process After Jaw Surgery:
1. Hospital Stay and Initial Healing:
Most patients stay in the hospital for 1–2 days after surgery. Swelling and mild discomfort are normal during the first week. Cold compresses and prescribed medication help manage pain.
2. Diet and Nutrition:
You’ll begin with a liquid diet, gradually moving to soft foods as healing progresses. Nutritious meals rich in protein, vitamins, and hydration accelerate recovery.
3. Speech and Movement:
Jaw stiffness may occur initially, but with guided physiotherapy, speech and jaw movement improve steadily within weeks.
4. Returning to Routine:
- Light work or school: 2–3 weeks post-surgery
- Full recovery: 2–3 months
- Final bite stability: up to 12 months
Surgeons offering jaw surgery in Islamabad provide detailed aftercare plans and regular follow-ups to ensure smooth healing and lasting results.
How Surgeons Determine Which Surgery You Need:
The decision between single and double jaw surgery is based on a comprehensive assessment involving:
- 3D imaging and CT scans
- Orthodontic evaluation
- Facial symmetry analysis
- Functional assessment (chewing, speech, airway)
If misalignment affects both jaws or facial harmony, double jaw surgery is typically recommended. However, for isolated issues, single jaw surgery offers a faster and more affordable solution.
Jaw Surgery Cost in Islamabad:
The jaw surgery cost in Islamabad varies based on the complexity, hospital, and surgeon’s expertise. Here’s a general overview:
Procedure TypeEstimated Cost (PKR)Single Jaw Surgery250,000 – 400,000Double Jaw Surgery500,000 – 700,000Pre-Surgical Orthodontics100,000 – 200,000Hospital Stay & Post-Care50,000 – 100,000
Advanced technology and skilled surgeons in Islamabad make these procedures accessible compared to international costs, without compromising quality or safety.
Why Choose Jaw Surgery in Islamabad?
Islamabad is home to experienced maxillofacial surgeons and state-of-the-art surgical facilities that ensure precision and safety. The advantages include:
- 3D imaging and digital planning for accuracy
- Minimally invasive surgical techniques
- Affordable jaw surgery cost options
- Personalized care before, during, and after surgery
Many clinics also offer flexible payment plans, making it easier for patients to undergo life-changing treatment without financial strain.
Conclusion:
Whether you need single jaw surgery or double jaw surgery, the goal is the same — to restore harmony, function, and confidence to your smile.
Single jaw surgery is best for mild misalignment limited to one jaw, while double jaw surgery addresses more complex issues involving both jaws and facial structure.
With highly qualified surgeons and affordable jaw surgery cost, jaw surgery in Islamabad provides world-class care tailored to every patient’s needs.
No matter which procedure you undergo, the outcome is transformative — a balanced bite, better function, and renewed self-confidence that lasts a lifetime.
For more information visit Dental Clinic Islamabad.
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