Jaw Surgery in Denver, CO

For patients in Denver experiencing jaw misalignment, difficulty chewing, or facial balance issues, corrective jaw surgery can provide lasting solutions that enhance both function and appearance. Many people seek this treatment to enhance comfort, improve bite efficiency, and boost overall confidence. Our triple-board-certified oral surgeon, Dr. Nesiba, provides professional care tailored to each individual’s needs, ensuring precise results and a smooth, positive experience.

Table Of Contents

table of contents

What Is Jaw Surgery?

Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a specialized medical procedure that corrects irregularities of the jaw bones. It is designed to address structural issues that may arise from hereditary or environmental influences, ensuring proper alignment of the upper and lower jaws. Advanced surgical techniques allow Dr. Nesiba to carefully reposition the jaw while maintaining stability and function throughout the process.

Types of Corrective Jaw Surgery

Chin Reshaping (Genioplasty)

Chin reshaping, also known as genioplasty, focuses on enhancing the shape and projection of a deficient chin. This procedure can be performed alone or in combination with other jaw procedures to improve facial balance and harmony. Dr. Nesiba adjusts the position or size of the chin bone to achieve a natural, proportional appearance.

Jaw Implants

Jaw implants are designed to enhance the definition, symmetry, and overall contour of the lower jaw. These implants can address a weak or recessed jawline, improve facial balance, and create a stronger, more defined profile. Dr. Nesiba carefully selects and customizes implant size and shape to complement each patient’s unique facial structure, ensuring natural-looking results that harmonize with the rest of the face. This procedure can be performed alone or alongside other corrective jaw surgeries for comprehensive facial improvement.

Your Initial
Consultation

Our pre-treatment consultation process ensures that every patient is fully informed about their options. During this visit, a complete examination is performed, often supplemented with comprehensive facial X-rays to provide a clear view of the jaw and facial structures. Three-dimensional models may also be created to help visualize the planned surgical adjustments and anticipated outcomes. Dr. Nesiba works closely with each patient throughout this process, discussing findings, answering questions, and outlining personalized treatment plans.

Jaw Surgery: A Step-by-Step Procedure

Anesthesia

Each treatment begins with local anesthesia and intravenous (IV) sedation to ensure patient comfort throughout the procedure. This combination enables Dr. Nesiba to make precise adjustments while minimizing discomfort and maintaining a stable surgical environment. The anesthesia is carefully monitored to maintain safety and responsiveness during the operation.

Incisions

After anesthesia is administered, the surgical process begins with strategic incisions inside the mouth, avoiding visible external scarring. In some cases, small external incisions may be required for access or chin reshaping procedures. These incisions provide direct access to the jawbone, allowing precise manipulation and repositioning.

Bone Reshaping and Repositioning

Once the jaw is accessible, the bones are carefully cut, reshaped, and repositioned to achieve proper alignment and functional balance. Dr. Nesiba moves the jaw to its new position, ensuring harmony between the upper and lower jaws and correcting misalignment or asymmetry. Plates, screws, or other fixation devices may be used to stabilize the bones during the healing process.

Alignment and Bite Adjustment

Meticulous attention is given to occlusion and bite alignment. Temporary orthodontic guides and measurements help ensure that the upper and lower teeth meet correctly in the new position. This step is essential for both functional efficiency and long-term stability of the jaw.

Soft Tissue Management

After the bones are repositioned, soft tissues—including muscles and connective tissue—are carefully adjusted and sutured. Proper soft tissue management helps support the new jaw structure and contributes to a natural facial contour.

Final Steps

The procedure concludes with final checks to confirm that all components of the jaw are secure and properly aligned. Fixation devices are verified, and incisions are closed with precision to promote optimal healing. This ensures that the jaw maintains its new position throughout the recovery period.

Recovery After Jaw Surgery

First 24 Hours

The initial 24 hours of the recovery process are focused on managing swelling, discomfort, and pain. Patients are typically monitored for any immediate complications, and pain medications are administered as needed to manage any discomfort. Ice packs may be applied externally to reduce swelling, while dietary restrictions are enforced to minimize stress on the surgical site.

Week 1

During the first week, swelling and bruising typically reach their peak but gradually begin to subside. Soft or liquid diets are maintained to protect the surgical area, and patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity. Regular follow-up appointments enable Dr. Nesiba to monitor the healing progress, adjust medications as needed, and address any concerns promptly.

Weeks 2–3

By the second and third weeks, swelling continues to decrease, and jaw mobility slowly improves. Sutures, if non-dissolvable, may be removed during this period. Patients may begin incorporating slightly firmer foods while still adhering to dietary guidelines designed to support the recovery process and prevent complications.

Weeks 4–6

The fourth through sixth weeks mark a transition toward normal jaw function. Most patients experience noticeable improvements in bite alignment and facial symmetry. Light physical activity can often be resumed, but activities that risk trauma to the jaw remain restricted. The surgical site continues to strengthen as the bones stabilize in their new position.

Months 2–6

Over the next several months, residual swelling continues to diminish, and the jaw gradually regains full strength. Routine follow-ups ensure that the recovery process is progressing smoothly, allowing for any minor adjustments to bite or alignment to be addressed. By the six-month mark, most patients achieve stable, long-lasting results in both function and appearance.

Candidates for Jaw Surgery

Jaw surgery is considered for patients whose jaw structure affects daily function or facial symmetry. Evaluation is based on medical history, dental alignment, and overall skeletal development to determine suitability for the procedure. Candidates may include:

Benefits of Jaw
Surgery

Corrected Bite and Chewing Function

Jaw surgery can correct an improper bite, enabling the upper and lower teeth to align correctly. This adjustment ensures that the jaw and teeth function properly, improving chewing efficiency and overall oral mechanics.

Improved Facial Symmetry

By addressing jaw alignment, the procedure can significantly enhance overall facial appearance. Properly aligned jaws create balanced proportions, resulting in a more harmonious and natural look.

Reduced Jaw Pain and Headaches

Surgical correction can alleviate temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, which often causes chronic jaw discomfort and headaches. Adjusting the jaw to its proper position reduces strain on the joint and surrounding muscles.

Easier Breathing and Improved Sleep

Correcting misaligned jaws can open the airway and reduce obstruction, helping alleviate conditions such as sleep apnea. Improved jaw positioning supports better airflow and overall respiratory function during sleep.

Enhanced Speech

Jaw surgery can address speech problems caused by jaws or teeth positioned incorrectly. By restoring proper alignment, patients often experience clearer pronunciation and improved communication ability.

Prevention of Oral Pathologies

Proper jaw alignment can help prevent chronic jaw problems and reduce strain on natural teeth. Maintaining a stable bite is crucial for supporting long-term oral function and overall dental health.

Compassionate Care

Throughout the surgical and recovery process, careful attention is given to supporting long-term oral health. Personalized care ensures that patients achieve lasting functional and aesthetic improvements while minimizing discomfort.

Cost of Jaw Surgery in Denver, CO

The cost of jaw surgery in Denver ranges from $6,000 to $45,000, depending on the complexity of the case and the specific procedures required. This estimate typically includes pre-surgical planning, imaging, anesthesia, and the actual surgery. Additional factors, such as post-operative care, can also influence the total cost. Each patient’s treatment plan is individualized, ensuring transparency and clarity regarding all financial considerations.

Dr. Nesiba Offers Top Expertise in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

With years of advanced training and extensive surgical experience, our triple-board-certified oral surgeon, Dr. John R. Nesiba, provides patients in Denver with exceptional care in jaw correction, facial reconstruction, and cosmetic procedures. He earned his DDS from the University of Nebraska before completing internships at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and LSU, where he developed expertise in trauma reconstruction, facial aesthetics, and orthognathic surgery.

Dr. Nesiba’s residency at the Detroit Medical Center further expanded his skills in anesthesia, dental implants, and complex facial procedures. Dr. Nesiba maintains hospital privileges at several leading institutions across Colorado and is certified in ACLS, PALS, and BLS, ensuring the highest standards of patient safety. His dedication to precision, compassion, and innovation has led to thousands of successful implant placements, wisdom tooth extractions, and sedation cases each year.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does jaw surgery take?

The length of jaw surgery depends on the complexity of the case and whether one or both jaws are involved. On average, the procedure takes between two and five hours. Each surgical plan is tailored to achieve safe and precise results.

Is oral surgery safe?

Yes, oral surgery is generally safe when performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon, such as Dr. Nesiba. Procedures are conducted under strict medical protocols to minimize risks and ensure patient comfort. Corrective jaw surgery can also help treat facial pain caused by misaligned jaws, providing both functional relief and improved quality of life.

Does jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) require a lengthy recovery period?

Recovery from jaw surgery varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and individual healing rates. Most patients can expect initial swelling and discomfort for the first few weeks, with gradual improvement over 6 to 12 weeks. While complete bone healing may take 6+ months, careful post-operative care and following your surgeon’s instructions can help ensure a smooth and successful recovery.

Do you offer dental implants and wisdom teeth removal?

Yes, our dental team provides both dental implant procedures and wisdom teeth removal as part of our comprehensive oral surgery services. Dental implants are often used to replace teeth lost due to trauma, impacted teeth, or birth defects, restoring both function and appearance. Wisdom teeth removal is performed with precision to prevent complications and protect long-term oral health.

Can I combine jaw surgery and wisdom teeth removal?

In some cases, jaw surgery can be combined with wisdom teeth removal. Coordinating these procedures allows patients to have wisdom teeth removed at the same time as jaw correction, which can streamline recovery and minimize multiple surgeries. This approach can also support achieving a balanced bite and a beautiful smile in a single treatment plan.

Can I combine jaw surgery and orthodontic treatment?

In many cases, jaw surgery is planned in coordination with orthodontic treatment. This combined approach ensures that the teeth and jaws are aligned properly for both function and aesthetics. Timing is carefully managed so that braces or aligners complement the surgical outcome.

Receive the Best Care at Cherry Creek Oral Surgery

Our practice provides comprehensive oral and maxillofacial surgery tailored to each patient’s needs. Whether you are experiencing TMJ pain, an open bite, or other issues related to jaw alignment, injury, or persistent symptoms, Dr. Nesiba and our friendly staff members are here to guide you through every step of your treatment. We handle a full scope of surgical procedures while prioritizing the protection of your private health information. To take the first step toward improved function and comfort, fill out our appointment request form or contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you achieve lasting results.