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Surgery · 양악수술

Two-Jaw (Orthognathic) Surgery

Surgery that repositions both upper and lower jaws to correct bite problems, protrusion, long face or asymmetry.

Quick facts
  • Korean name: 양악수술
  • Procedure time: 3 to 5 hours
  • Anesthesia: General anesthesia
  • Sessions: 1, plus orthodontics before and after
  • Downtime: 3 to 6 weeks; soft or liquid diet for 4 to 6 weeks
  • Results: Face shape readable at 3 months; final at 6 to 12 months
  • Lasts: Permanent
  • Typical price: ₩15,000,000–₩25,000,000 (surgery only, orthodontics extra)

What is Two-Jaw (Orthognathic) Surgery?

Two-jaw surgery (양악수술) moves the upper jaw (Le Fort I osteotomy) and lower jaw (bilateral sagittal split osteotomy) into a new position. It treats skeletal underbite, overbite, open bite, facial asymmetry and a long or protruding face.

It is a major operation. Hospital stay is several nights, and orthodontic treatment is usually needed before and after, unless the clinic offers a surgery-first approach.

How it works

After 3D CT planning and surgical splints, the surgeon cuts the upper jaw above the tooth roots and the lower jaw along its inner ramus, moves both into the planned position, and fixes them with titanium plates. Elastic bands guide the bite during healing. Some patients have chin or angle contouring at the same time.

Who it suits

  • Skeletal underbite or overbite
  • Facial asymmetry from the jaw bones
  • Long face or gummy smile from upper jaw excess
  • Open bite

Who should skip it or wait

  • Patients who cannot commit to orthodontic follow-up
  • People still growing (usually under 18 to 20)
  • Short trips: the timeline needs weeks in Korea

Side effects and risks

  • Numbness of lip and chin, sometimes permanent
  • Bite relapse
  • Bleeding needing transfusion (rare)
  • Jaw joint (TMJ) symptoms
  • Plate infection needing removal

Aftercare

  • Follow the liquid then soft diet plan strictly
  • Wear elastics as directed
  • Clean teeth with a soft brush and rinses
  • Attend weekly checks for the first month
  • Avoid contact sports for 3 months

Planning around your trip

Plan at least 3 to 4 weeks in Seoul, including 3 to 5 nights in hospital; most surgeons clear flying only after the 2 to 3 week check.

Plastic Surgery clinics near Apgujeong

Last reviewed October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. A doctor confirms what suits you at consultation.

Two-Jaw (Orthognathic) Surgery price in Apgujeong

₩15,000,000–₩25,000,000
surgery only, orthodontics extra

Typical range at clinics around Apgujeong, Sinsa and Cheongdam, checked 2026-10. Source: Korea Experience, Korea Plastic Surgery Cost Guide 2026. Cosmetic treatments in Korea carry 10% VAT; ask whether a quote includes it.

Two-Jaw (Orthognathic) Surgery questions

Do I need braces before surgery?

Traditionally yes, for 12 to 18 months. Surgery-first protocols skip most pre-surgical braces but still need orthodontics afterwards.

Is my mouth wired shut?

Usually not with modern rigid fixation. Elastics hold the bite, and you can open slightly for liquids.

How much weight do people lose?

Many lose 3 to 5 kg in the first month because of the liquid diet. Protein shakes help.

Can I do orthodontics in my home country?

Possibly, but the surgeon and orthodontist must coordinate splint planning closely. Ask the clinic how they handle remote orthodontic follow-up.

Is two-jaw surgery covered by insurance in Korea?

Korean national insurance covers diagnosed skeletal malocclusion for enrolled patients. Foreign visitors without NHI pay the full fee.

Will my face change a lot?

It depends on how far the jaws move. Changes of several millimetres can noticeably alter the profile, so review the 3D simulation carefully.

Plan your visit

Get a quote before you fly

Send the treatment, your dates and any past procedures. We reply in English with options, prices and clinic locations near Apgujeong Station.