Can BSSO surgery treat the asymmetry of the jaws?

Question

Hi doctor,

If I get a BSSO done on my lower jaw as the left side of my mandible is longer would I be able to advance both? Will I end up having a less recessed jaw that is more or less symmetrical? And will the BSSO help me with my clicking from my right jaw which is the short one? I have TMJ pain on that side from the clicking.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. BSSO (bilateral sagittal split osteotomy) is a surgical procedure wherein both sides of the lower jaw will be split and re-positioned according to the needs. As you have mentioned, one side (left) is longer than the right, which means the chin deviates to the right side. Yes, this issue of asymmetry can be addressed with BSSO. There will be certain guidelines to do so. BSSO involves surgical planning with combined discussions from the maxillofacial surgeon and the orthodontist. The current occlusal status, patient profile, dental alignment, orthodontic needs for better occlusion, etc. are certain factors that influence surgical planning. As per the requirements, the plan can involve one side being moved more forward than the other. This can address the asymmetry as well as align the chin. As the jaw surgery is done, it also results in some changes in the position of TMJ. This could result in the clicking sound being eliminated. After preliminary planning is done, a surgical splint will be made that will act as a guide to where and how much the split has to be done to get the best post-surgical results. If there are no complications of bite occlusion, or development of crossbite, overjet, and overbite problems, the plan can be executed. I hope this answers all of your concerns. Feel free to reach out for further queries or clarifications. I would be happy to address them. Kind regards.