Upper is optional; Should I just do it?

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#1 Post by **mcmichaels** » Sun May 16, 2010 9:57 am

My surgeon met with my orthodontist and they both agree the malocclusion can be corrected with only lower jaw surgery if the orthodontist corrects the gaps left (2 or 3 millimeters) between my upper and lower teeth. However, the surgeon said doing the upper jaw surgery would have some cosmetic benefits. I have a one centimeter overbite and a slight gummy smile. I have seen gummy smiles a lot worse. I haven't asked my orthodontist yet how much longer I would be in braces if I skip the upper jaw surgery, but I can say when he gives me estimates of how long something will take it usually takes 2 to 3x as long. I imagine if I do the upper surgery I would have less time left in braces.

I don't know what to do! I sort of feel since I am already going through the hassle of lower jaw surgery I should just get them both done. The insurance company already approved upper and lower. The cost difference to me will just net to an extra $1K.

HELP!

#2 Post by **revolutionary** » Sun May 16, 2010 2:06 pm

I would say it sounds like you already know what you want. There's added cosmetic benefit, potential less time in braces, and you're already going to have one jaw moved; might as well get the job done fully for the best possible result...

#3 Post by **mcmichaels** » Sun May 16, 2010 8:10 pm

Thanks Alison! It is always helpful to have an objective view on a problem.

#4 Post by **Audra** » Mon May 17, 2010 7:23 am

Double jaw surgery takes longer to recover from for sure.

For me, treatment for a gummy smile would definitely be a consideration and my choice would probably be to go for it.

#5 Post by **attackred** » Tue May 18, 2010 9:44 am

McMichaels, I'm in the same situation. My surgeon told me the upper was optional but recommended it.

I'm getting both, if you're going to do it. Get it done right the first time.

#6 Post by **mcmichaels** » Wed May 19, 2010 7:37 pm

Well, my surgery is Monday, but I have until Friday to make up my mind . I have a visit with the orthodontist Friday (they put some hooks in before surgery) and then a visit with the surgeon so I'll be able to run through the pros and cons one more time...

#7 Post by **riotshield** » Mon May 24, 2010 4:30 am

I was in a similar situation and went for the double jaw surgery. Even though my recovery was more difficult than people I met with just lower jaw surgery, I think it was worth it. My gummy smile was reduced and my orthodontist told me my result was more balanced than his patients who just had the lower jaw moved.

#8 Post by **mcmichaels** » Thu May 27, 2010 4:18 pm

After meeting one more time with the orthodontist and the surgeon I decided to do just the lower jaw surgery. I looked at my smile and I really liked my smile. It isn't a huge amount of gum that I show and showing some gum makes for a youthful smile. Both the surgeon and orthodontist clarified that upper was optional (I think they have to give you all the options) but their personal recommendation would be to leave it alone. I am in my forties so as aging sets in I will show less gum. Not showing any gum is somewhat aging and that was their concern.

My bite feels great! I am so glad I did this! As soon as I woke up from surgery I could fell the difference. The first two postoperative days were rough but I am feeling much better now.

Thanks for all your support and good luck!

#9 Post by **pvnguyen1** » Sat May 29, 2010 9:32 pm

I chose lower only. My case might be different than yours, but I'm glad I only had lower jaw done. Recovery is a lot better.