BILATERAL SAGITTAL SPLIT OSTEOTOMY
Bilateral Sagittal Split Osteotomy (BSSO) is a widely used surgical intervention to address lower jaw protrusion, or mandibular prognathism, along with various jaw deformities. This procedure entails splitting the lower jawbone on both sides and repositioning the segments to achieve improved balance and functionality.
Indications for BSSO
- Individuals with severe mandibular prognathism
- Those experiencing difficulty in chewing or speaking due to jaw misalignment
- Individuals with facial asymmetry resulting from overbites or crossbites
- Those with habitual mouth breathing or sleep apnea
- Individuals suffering from TMJ disorders characterized by jaw joint pain, clicking, or popping
- Those with jaw deformities due to injuries or tumors
BSSO Procedure Overview:
- Anesthesia: The patient undergoes general anesthesia for painless and relaxed surgery.
- Incision: An incision along the gum line provides access to the underlying bone structure.
- Bone Cutting: Utilizing specialized instruments, the mandible is carefully split on both sides.
- Jaw Repositioning: The two jaw halves are repositioned for optimal alignment and facial balance.
- Fixation: Repositioned jaw segments are secured using screws, plates, or other fixation methods.
- Wound Closure: Incisions are meticulously sutured to encourage healing and minimize scarring.
Recovery Expectations:
- Recovery spans weeks to months with potential jaw area pain, swelling, and bruising.
- Initial healing phase involves a recommended soft diet, and physical activity may be restricted.
Benefits of BSSO:
- Enhanced facial balance and symmetry
- Improved chewing and speaking function
- Reduced TMJ pain and discomfort
- Better breathing and sleep quality
- Enhanced self-esteem and confidence
In conclusion, BSSO is a secure and effective procedure with significant potential to enhance appearance, function, and quality of life for individuals dealing with mandibular prognathism and other jaw deformities.
