Bite & Facial Deformities (Orthognathic Surgery)

Bite & Facial Deformities

(Orthognathic Surgery)

Orthognathic surgery is essentially surgical correction of facial skeletal imbalance.

This imbalance can result from facial growth abnormalities, trauma or congenital disorders such as cleft lip and palate. This imbalance results in difficulty in eating, premature tooth wear and loss, temporomandibular joint or facial muscle dysfunction and pain along with abnormal facial appearance. Orthognathic surgery usually starts with pre-surgical orthodontics to correctly align the teeth so the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon is able to move the facial bones to their ideal position. There is usually a short course of post-operative orthodontics to fine-tune the occlusion (bite). Orthognathic surgery not only involves proper positioning of the facial bones, but may also involve the placement of implants, liposuction or other adjuvant treatment to optimize the treatment outcome. Dr. Thoman has been performing orthognathic surgery since 1988. He has always been careful to work in a collaborative fashion with the patient, general dentist and orthodontist to make sure that all concerns are addressed. This collaboration along with careful attention to detail in the surgery helps assure the best outcome possible for each individual patient.

Jaw Surgery

Utilizing VSP (Virtual Surgical Planning)

VSP (Virtual Surgical Planning) technology provides our team with a clear three-dimensional understanding of our patient’s anatomy to develop a strategy prior to entering the operating room. In addition, patient specific sterilizable surgical guides, models and instruments are produced for use during surgery. Not only does VSP reduce the time that a patient spends under anesthesia it also improves surgical outcomes.

How does VSP work?

Beginning with a patient’s CT scan, a team of biomedical engineers at 3D Systems takes the data and brings it into a three-dimensional environment. Next your surgeon and a biomedical engineer participate in a web meeting where they review the data in a 3D environment and determine the surgical plan. Based on the web meeting, patient-specific guides are designed, manufactured and sent for sterilization and use during surgery. To learn more about VSP please visit

Patient CT Scan
VSP Surgical Plan
Orthognathic Splint Design
Splint Used in Surgery
Patient CT Scan

Virtual Planning

Splint Used in Surgery
