Jaw Surgery

Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a transformative procedure used to correct irregularities of the jawbones and improve alignment, facial symmetry, and overall function. As a Clinical Professor of Plastic Surgery, Neurosurgery, and Pediatrics at UCLA, Dr. Jarrahy works closely with orthodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and other specialists to guide patients through every step of the jaw surgery process—from initial evaluation to surgical correction and long-term follow-up.

Jaw surgery help correct

  • Open bite or underbite

  • Overbite or crossbite

  • Jaw misalignment causing TMJ issues

  • Facial asymmetry

  • Speech or chewing difficulties

  • Sleep apnea due to airway obstruction

Surgical Process and Recovery

Jaw surgery is performed in a hospital setting, typically requiring an overnight stay. Patients are placed on a modified diet postoperatively and may experience temporary swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which are managed with medication and rest. Most patients are able to return to school or work within 2–4 weeks, though full healing may take several months.

Dr. Jarrahy and his team provide detailed postoperative guidance, including jaw exercises, hygiene tips, and dietary recommendations. Regular follow-up ensures the bones are healing properly and that functional improvements are maintained.

  • “Dr. Jarrahy is the most exceptional teacher, mentor and physician I have had in my career.His dedication to his students and patients is unparalleled. He deserves every accolade known to mankind. I cannot endorse him enough. I owe him so much of my career. He enabled me to match into plastic surgery at Stanford and has guided my career like a guardian angel.”

  • “Thank you so much for the excellent care.

    With much gratitude”

  • “Dr. Jarrahy, there are very few people I would consider both personal & professional mentors/role models. I greatly appreciate your guidance in the technical arts of surgery, but maybe even more so, admire your genuine passion for connecting deeply & authentically with others.The value you place on relationships/human connection was clearly evident and I aspire to bring this element to my future endeavors, regardless of the setting. I admire your life priorities & balance, which I think very few in medicine, let alone surgery, do well.”

  • “Dr. Jarrahy is the best!! As a medical student Dr. Jarrahy was my mentor and he cares so much about education and the well-being of his students. Amazing teacher and great person to be around.”

  • “Excellent teacher, takes time to teach residents, allows autonomy to improve surgical education while providing adequate supervision.”