Orthognathic surgery
Receding Jaw Surgery — Treatment for an Underdeveloped Lower Jaw
Assessment and combined surgical and orthodontic treatment when the lower jaw sits too far back and the bite is deep.
Overview
Also known as: retrognathia, retruded lower jaw, overbite, deep bite, Class II bite
A receding jaw (retrognathia) is a condition in which the lower jaw sits further back than the upper jaw. In profile the chin looks set back, and the upper front teeth often overlap the lower ones markedly — a so-called deep bite.
When the mismatch lies in the bones and is marked, orthodontic treatment alone may not be enough. Orthognathic surgery, in which the lower jaw — and sometimes the upper jaw — is moved into a more balanced position, may then be discussed.
The position of the jaws may also be relevant to breathing during sleep. If there are complaints such as snoring or pauses in breathing, these may be assessed further by the appropriate specialists — surgery is not considered a stand-alone answer without such assessment.
When to seek a consultation
- The chin and lower jaw look set back in profile.
- The upper front teeth overlap or protrude markedly in front of the lower teeth.
- Difficulty biting, chewing or closing the lips without effort.
- An orthodontist has referred you for a surgical opinion because of a skeletal mismatch.
What treatment may involve
- Clinical examination, photographs, digital scans and imaging to analyse the jaws and bite.
- Joint planning with an orthodontist, usually with orthodontic preparation before surgery.
- Where needed, referral for assessment of breathing during sleep before final planning.
- Surgery under general anaesthesia to reposition the lower and/or upper jaw, followed by orthodontic finishing and follow-up.
What to bring to the consultation
- An identity document and, where applicable, a referral from your GP or specialist.
- Existing medical records: discharge summaries, outpatient notes and test results.
- Imaging studies (X-rays, CT, MRI) on a disc or other digital medium, together with the written reports.
- A list of your current medicines, known allergies and chronic conditions.
- Information from your orthodontist, if you have one — treatment plan, photographs, models.
Recovery and follow-up
In the first days after surgery, swelling, discomfort and limited mouth opening are expected. A soft diet is usually advised for a period, along with careful oral hygiene.
How long recovery takes is individual. Check-ups and orthodontic finishing are part of the treatment.
Risks and alternatives
Besides general surgical risks, possible risks include numbness of the lower lip and chin, bite changes, discomfort in the jaw joints and the need for further correction.
Alternatives include orthodontic treatment alone in milder cases and, for sleep-related complaints, other approaches assessed by the relevant specialists. Choosing not to have surgery is also a valid option.
Every surgical procedure carries general risks — for example those related to anaesthesia, bleeding, infection, delayed healing or scarring. The specific risks depend on your health, and on the type and extent of the procedure.
Possible alternatives — including observation, non-surgical treatment or referral to another specialist — are discussed openly during the consultation.
Outcomes and recovery time vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a receding chin and a receding jaw?
The terms are often used interchangeably for a lower jaw that sits too far back. Sometimes only the chin is affected — an accurate assessment is made after examination and imaging.
Does jaw surgery help with snoring or sleep apnoea?
The position of the jaws may be relevant to breathing during sleep, but this is assessed individually, including by other specialists. No effect can be promised in advance.
Do I need braces before jaw surgery?
In most cases orthognathic surgery is combined with orthodontic treatment before and after it. The specific plan is made together with an orthodontist.
This information does not replace a medical examination. Whether treatment is suitable for you is assessed individually after a consultation.