Has anyone else had a SARPE procedure?

June 21, 2005

Hi everyone,

I recently found out that to have the smile I always wanted and to

close my open bite I have to have 2 procedures. My ortho and surgeon

have said I need to have a surgically assisted rapid pallet expansion

(SARPE)procedure. The Drs describe this as a 2 hour procedure and I

will be outpatient. They said I will have a splint and need to widen

my jaw with a key. I am not sure what this means, so was hoping to

hear from anyone familiar with the procedure or who has had this done.

After having this surgery I will have to have a second where they

will move my upper jaw upward in segements. I will not be wired shut

but will have rigid fixation.

I haven't even gotten my braces yet. My doctors want me to decide if

I want to go through all this. I would like more info to help me

decide if I can live with things as they are or go through the

process. My ortho was no help, as he said about 50% don't go through

with this and about 50% do.

Any info someone on the site could provide will be great, thanks.

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