Orthognathic surgery is the term given for surgery to align the jaws. It is specialised and complex, requiring careful planning using specialist imaging and 3D planning software, and is usually performed in conjunction with orthodontic treatment.

Orthognathic surgery may be required to treat problems associated with overgrowth, undergrowth, disproportion and asymmetry of the jaws and facial skeleton. Uncorrected facial asymmetry, or jaw and tooth misalignment can cause difficulties with chewing and speech. Orthognathic surgery is also used in the management of congenital craniofacial syndromes.

Usually, treatment is undertaken in the teenage years and early adult life when facial growth is complete or nearing completion. However, corrective jaw surgery can be offered to adults of all ages.

If you require orthognathic surgery you will be referred to Mr Goodisson usually by an orthodontist. At the first appointment at the clinic a full medical history, clinical examination and a cone beam CT scan will be taken. The process from consultation to surgery can be lengthy and surgery is always under general anaesthesia at Hawkes Bay Soldiers Memorial Hospital in Hastings.

Facial injuries unfortunately occur commonly in New Zealand usually from sporting injuries, falls, motor vehicle accidents & occasionally, assaults.

A facial injury can be very traumatic as not only can it be disfiguring, a number of important senses such as feeling, taste, smell & sight can be impaired. Facial injuries may involve the soft and hard tissues (bone & cartilage) of the forehead, eye sockets, cheeks, nose and jaws.

Repair of facial injuries can range from major reconstructive operations with hospital admission, to the treatment of minor injuries to the mouth and tooth-supporting structures that can be done at the clinic.

At Scott Clinic we have a collaborative approach to the treatment of facial injury. We work closely with ACC and other health professionals such as GP’s, Physiotherapists, Ophthalmologists and Ear, Nose & Throat specialists to provide treatment that is appropriate and timely. We utilise the latest 3D planning software as necessary.

If you have been referred to Scott Clinic for the management of a facial injury, you will be guided through the process by the clinic staff as ACC approval is needed for every aspect of your treatment. If you have a facial injury, you will have an initial consultation where a full medical history and clinical examination is done, and possibly a cone beam CT scan.

Repair of soft tissue injury to the face is often able to be done under local anaesethetic at the clinic, but a general anaesethetic is usually required for repair of bony facial injury.