Complications of Orthognathic Surgery

Orthognathic surgery is a complex operation requiring a sophisticated understanding of facial anatomy as well as an advanced knowledge of the interplay between the associated soft and hard tissues. A thorough analysis of the patient’s preoperative form and function along with the mastery of different techniques involved could circumvent many potential complications. Additionally, a thorough and detailed discussion of these complications with the patients and their families could prevent future disappointments or unreasonable expectations. This chapter will review surgical complications involving maxillary and mandibular osteotomies and will discuss different ways to recognize and correct them.