Orthognathic Surgery
Jaw Straightening
Orthognathic surgery, or jaw straightening surgery, uses a spectrum of surgical procedures for the jaw and chin to improve both form and function.
How do I choose a plastic surgeon for jaw surgery?
Orthognathic surgery involves many choices. The first and most important is selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon who is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).
ASPS Member Surgeons meet rigorous standards:
- Board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
- Complete at least six years of surgical training following medical school with a minimum of three years of plastic surgery residency training
- Pass comprehensive oral and written exams
- Graduate from an accredited medical school
- Complete continuing medical education, including patient safety, each year
- Perform surgery in accredited, state-licensed or Medicare-certified surgical facilities
Do not be confused by other official-sounding boards and certifications.
The ABPS is recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), which has approved medical specialty boards since 1934. There is no ABMS-recognized certifying board with "cosmetic surgery" in its name.
By choosing a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, you can be assured that you are choosing a qualified, highly trained plastic surgeon who is board certified by the ABPS or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.