Re: jaws wired shut? screws? plate?

[Guest guest]

I think that you will find on this site that everyone's doctors have a

different opinion on how this should be handled. I am one week post

op, and I am wired completely shut. I will stay wired shut for 4 to 6

weeks. My surgeon did not use rigid fixation because he believes that

it puts less stress on the TMJ and the muscles. It also allows for the

bone to set in the most natural position as opposed to being forced

into a rigid position. My x-rays look good, so this appears to be

working for me.

> i am contemplating getting lower jaw surgery and my oral surgeon has

> recommended that i get my jaws wired shut...i have read in several

> other websites that getting your jaws wired shut isn't necessarily

the

> only option these days, given that they can use screws to hold the

> bones in place. what is everyone's thoughts on what the best route

to

> take is. i figure if i don't have my jaws wired shut i might be

able

> to eat soft foods (not just liquid foods) in a few weeks and that

> would alleviate excess weight loss. however ive been told that

using

> screws or plates can cause permanent numbness too...