What Is Orthognathic Surgery for Adult Cleft Patients?
Adults with cleft may benefit from additional jaw surgery. Here is what it involves.
Orthognathic surgery for adult cleft patients corrects jaw alignment issues that persist after childhood treatment. About 25-50% of cleft patients need it.
- Why it is needed:
- The upper jaw may not grow forward fully after palate repair
- This creates an underbite (lower teeth in front of upper teeth)
- Poor bite affects chewing, breathing, and appearance
- What is done:
- Le Fort I osteotomy to advance the upper jaw
- May include lower jaw surgery for balance
- Often combined with cleft rhinoplasty
- Performed after facial growth is complete (16-18+)
- Recovery:
- Similar to standard orthognathic surgery
- 3-4 weeks of recovery
- Liquid to soft diet
- Braces before and after surgery
Clinical Guidance
Many adults with cleft benefit from orthognathic surgery to correct underbite and improve facial balance. It is performed after growth is complete and typically involves advancing the upper jaw.