Orthognathic Surgery in Seattle, WA

Sometimes orthodontic treatment alone isn’t enough to correct severe jaw misalignment. That’s where orthognathic surgery – also known as corrective jaw surgery – comes in. At Seattle Braces, Dr. C. Neil Nicholson works closely with trusted oral and maxillofacial surgeons to guide patients through this specialized process and help them achieve lasting functional and aesthetic improvements.

What Is Orthognathic Surgery?

Orthognathic surgery is a procedure that realigns the upper and/or lower jaws to improve the way the teeth fit together and enhance overall facial balance. This type of surgical intervention is typically recommended when significant jaw discrepancies affect your bite, breathing, speech, or facial symmetry.

When Is Jaw Surgery Needed?

Dr. Nicholson may recommend jaw surgery if you have:

Difficulty chewing or biting food
Chronic jaw pain or TMJ symptoms
Speech problems related to jaw alignment
Open bite (front teeth don’t touch when back teeth are closed)
Underbite, overbite, or crossbite that can't be corrected with braces alone
Facial asymmetry or receding/protruding jaw
Obstructive sleep apnea related to jaw position

How Orthognathic Surgery and Braces Work Together

Jaw surgery is usually part of a combined orthodontic treatment plan. Braces are worn both before and after surgery to properly align the teeth and ensure the best functional outcome.

Pre-Surgical Orthodontics – Dr. Nicholson aligns your teeth in preparation for surgery, typically over 12–18 months.
Surgical Phase – A specialized surgeon repositions the jaw(s) based on a detailed plan created with input from our team.
Post-Surgical Orthodontics – Braces remain in place to fine-tune the bite as the jaw heals, which can take an additional 6–12 months.

Throughout the entire process, Seattle Braces will coordinate your care, monitor your progress, and make sure you feel supported every step of the way.

Benefits of Orthognathic Surgery

Corrective jaw surgery is about more than improving your bite — it can also positively impact your quality of life. Benefits may include:

Improved ability to chew, bite, and speak
Better breathing and reduced sleep apnea symptoms
Relief from jaw or TMJ pain
Enhanced facial symmetry and profile
Long-term stability of your orthodontic results

Why Choose Seattle Braces for Surgical Orthodontics?

At Seattle Braces, Dr. C. Neil Nicholson has extensive experience creating custom treatment plans for patients requiring surgical orthodontic care. We collaborate closely with oral surgeons in the Seattle area to deliver safe, effective, and life-changing results. Call us at (206) 722-5000 to schedule your consultation and find out if orthognathic surgery is the right solution for your smile and bite.