Orthognathic
Jaw Surgery

Santa Barbara & Buellton, CA

Correct significant jaw and bite discrepancies that cannot be treated with orthodontics alone.

While jaw surgery sounds intimidating, most patients are surprised by how structured, coordinated, and predictable the process actually is.

Orthognathic surgery is used when the upper and lower jaws don’t fit together properly due to skeletal discrepancies — not simply tooth position. This treatment is recommended for significant underbites, overbites, open bites, severe asymmetry, or when airway and breathing are impacted.

Surgery repositions the jaws to improve bite mechanics, reduce long-term wear on teeth, address airway concerns, and achieve more harmonious facial proportions.

Dr. Feusier works closely with trusted oral surgeons and guides patients through every orthodontic phase before and after surgery.

The Process

Comprehensive
Evaluation

Your initial visit features an orthodontic assessment - including digital scans, 3D imaging, photos, and airway analysis.

Coordinated
Planning

Dr. Feusier plans and coordinates the orthodontic phases before and after surgery.

Pre-surgical
Orthodontics

Braces or aligners align the teeth into the planned surgical occlusion.

Surgical
Procedure

Inpatient or outpatient corrective jaw surgery is performed by a board-certified oral & maxillofacial surgeon.

Post-surgical Othodontics

Finalize tooth positioning and receive ongoing monitoring for optimal healing and function.

Feusier staff talking to patient

Symptoms & Indicators

  • Difficulty chewing or persistent jaw pain
  • Chronic mouth-breathing or obstructive sleep symptoms
  • Noticeable facial asymmetry or protruding/chubby jaw appearance
  • Speech difficulties related to jaw position
  • Bite that cannot be corrected with braces alone
Young smiling woman drinking tea and looking through the window at home

Who May Benefit

Patients may benefit from orthognathic jaw surgery if they currently have:

  • Severe underbites or overbites 
  • Open bites that cannot be corrected with braces alone 
  • Facial asymmetry 
  • Bite problems affecting chewing, speech, or breathing

What to expect

We create a customized plan combining orthodontics and surgery to optimize both form and function for adult and late-adolescent patients.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the whole process take?

The combined process (pre-ortho, surgery, post-op orthodontics) varies by case but typically spans several months to over a year depending on the complexity.

Is orthognathic surgery painful?

Discomfort is managed with medications and support from the surgical team; most patients report manageable pain that improves quickly during recovery.

What does recovery look like?

Recovery typically includes a brief hospital stay for some procedures and several weeks of staged healing; most patients return to regular activities within a few weeks, with full stabilization over months.

Will I need braces if I have jaw surgery?

Yes — most patients require pre- and/or post-surgical orthodontics to align the teeth to the new jaw position for a stable, functional bite.