I have a underbite and i'm considering surgery for it. what are the benefits and risks?

Get all options! : Surgery may be the only true solution in some cases. Get a second opinion. The results from surgery can be fantastic but can be a long painful road towards the end result.

Many risks/beneifts: Well for one thing it is surgery. Based on the info you have given the surgery will involve breaking and repositioning one or both of your jaws and most likely orthodontics. That is a lot to go through if the underbite is minimal and/or not affecting the quality of life or esthetics. Risks are temporary or perm numbness or tingling of the jaws, swelling, pain, etc. Benefit- improving bite/looks.

Few risks.: The risk for surgey is the same as for any surgery: including adverse reaction to the anesthesia and secondary infection. These risks are relatively rare. The benefits, however, can be improved cosmetics and greater ablitity to chew.

Many of both: Discuss with your doctor. All surgeries have risk (infection, failure to cure, delayed healing) this also has the risk of permanent facial numbness. Benefits are increased function, a healthier jaw joint and a nicer facial appearance.

Avoid Surgery: Insurance rarely covers surgery. Fees from $10k to $40k are typical, plus the cost of orthodontics. Most are forced to finance it. Lack of reimbursement has driven many surgeons to eliminate it. The rest do fewer cases, and are thus less practiced. This increases chances for bad outcomes. Option? Seek an orthodontist using the damon system (www.Damonbraces.Com). Excellent results without surgery.

Extent: Need for surgery to correct an underbite depends on the cause/severity of the problem. Is your underbite dental, skeletal, or both? Is upper jaw too far back, lower jaw too far forward, or both? What other malrelationships do you have besides the anterior corset? Please see a qualified Orthodontic Specialist who may be able to treat you non-surgically, or who will team with an Oral Surgeon.