Surgical Orthodontics in Seomyeon, Busan

What is surgical orthodontics?

Braces and aligners move teeth within the bone, but they cannot change the size or position of the jaws in adults. When the jaws are significantly mismatched, orthodontics alone may only camouflage the problem. Surgical orthodontics uses orthognathic surgery, such as upper jaw (Le Fort I) or lower jaw (sagittal split) osteotomies, to reposition the jaws, with orthodontics to align the teeth so they fit together correctly afterwards.

Who is it for?

Adults with severe underbite, overbite or open bite
People with noticeable jaw asymmetry
Those with chewing or speech problems due to jaw position
Patients whose camouflage options would compromise function or appearance

Surgery is usually planned after growth has finished, often in the late teens or later.

What happens

Joint consultation: the orthodontist and surgeon review CT scans, X-rays, photos and models.
Pre-surgical orthodontics: braces align teeth in each jaw independently, often for about 6–18 months. In a surgery-first approach, this phase is shortened or skipped.
Surgical planning: 3D virtual planning and surgical splints guide the jaw movements.
Surgery: performed under general anesthesia in hospital, usually through incisions inside the mouth, with plates and screws fixing the bones.
Post-surgical orthodontics: braces fine-tune the bite, commonly for about 6–12 months, followed by retainers.

Recovery and aftercare

Expect significant swelling for the first one to two weeks, gradually settling over months. A liquid then soft diet is needed for several weeks. Many people return to desk work after about 2–4 weeks. Numbness of the lower lip and chin is common at first and usually improves over months.

Risks and side effects

Risks include bleeding, infection, nerve-related numbness that can occasionally persist, bite relapse, jaw joint discomfort and complications of general anesthesia. A careful team approach reduces these risks.

Choosing a clinic for surgical orthodontics in Seomyeon

Ask which surgeon and hospital the orthodontist works with, and how they coordinate.
Ask whether the surgeon is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Ask whether surgery-first is suitable for you and what trade-offs it has.
Ask to see your 3D surgical plan and predicted profile.
Ask about recovery support, diet guidance and when you can travel.

Planning a long-term stay

Surgical orthodontics requires an extended stay or regular presence in Busan. Seomyeon is centrally placed on the metro network for frequent orthodontic visits.

When is jaw surgery needed with braces?

Surgery is considered when the jaws themselves are significantly mismatched in size or position, and braces alone cannot achieve a healthy, stable bite or acceptable appearance.

What is the surgery-first approach?

Surgery is performed early, with most orthodontic alignment done afterwards. It can shorten overall treatment and show facial changes sooner, but is not suitable for every case.

How long is recovery after orthognathic surgery?

Most people spend a few days in hospital and return to desk work after about 2–4 weeks. Swelling and numbness gradually improve over several months.

Is surgical orthodontics covered by insurance in Korea?

Coverage depends on the diagnosis and eligibility rules; some functional cases may receive NHI support while cosmetic-focused treatment does not. Ask the hospital to confirm before starting.

Will jaw surgery change my face?

Yes, repositioning the jaws changes facial profile and proportions. The 3D plan can show predicted changes, and your team should discuss expectations in detail.

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