Table of contents

• Double Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery) Procedures
• Best Clinics in Korea for Open Bite
• The Medical Tourist’s Pathway in South Korea
• Patient Outcomes and Quality of Life
• Conclusion
• References

An open bite is a type of dental malocclusion where the upper and lower teeth do not overlap vertically when the jaws are closed. In a normal bite, the upper teeth cover the lower teeth slightly, enabling effective chewing and proper speech. With an open bite, there’s a gap between opposing teeth. This space most often appears between the front teeth, which is known as an anterior open bite (AOB). It can also occur between back teeth, in what’s called a posterior open bite. While "open bite" is used commonly—usually for AOB—the clinical term apertognathia may also describe this condition.

Prevalence of open bite malocclusion varies by population; it typically ranges from 1.5% to 11%. Age is a factor, with the rate decreasing as children grow older and develop stronger oral function. For example, about 4.2% of six-year-olds show signs of AOB, but that number drops to 2% by age fourteen.

Etiology and Pathophysiology: A Multifactorial Perspective

Open bite development is influenced by genetic, environmental, and developmental factors working together.

Skeletal Factors
A key factor in open bite is skeletal discrepancy, where the jawbones diverge vertically rather than grow parallel. Genetic predisposition often shapes this jaw growth, leading to certain facial patterns. For instance, people with hyper or leptoprosopic (long-face) types may experience molar supra-eruption, creating an excess vertical skeletal structure and resulting in anterior open bite.

Environmental and Habit-Related Factors
Behavioral habits, especially in childhood, have a profound influence on dental development:

• Thumb or Pacifier Sucking: Persistent thumb or pacifier sucking past age four or five can trigger an open bite because the upward and forward pressure shifts tooth alignment. If the habit stops before adult teeth arrive, open bites may self-correct.
• Tongue Thrusting: Some children or adults push their tongue between upper and lower front teeth while swallowing or speaking, keeping the front teeth from touching.
• Trauma: Injuries to the jaw, such as a fractured temporomandibular joint in a growing child, can lead to condylar ankylosis and abnormal jaw growth, causing severe open bite.

Associated Conditions
Open bite isn’t only a dental issue. It’s often linked to broader health challenges. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), which causes chronic jaw pain, may be associated with open bite if patients habitually reposition their jaw for comfort. Jaw misalignments can also harm the airway, contributing to obstructive sleep apnea and causing symptoms like snoring, dry mouth, or feeling tired even after plenty of sleep.

The Rationale for Surgical Intervention

While mild, dentoalveolar open bites may improve with braces or aligners, a severe skeletal open bite cannot be fixed by simply moving the teeth. Here, the misalignment stems from the jawbone’s structure and needs skeletal changes.

Historically, the gold standard for skeletal open bite has been a combination of orthodontic treatment and orthognathic surgery. In recent years, an alternative non-surgical option has emerged for select cases: Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) can be used to intrude the molars, mimicking the biomechanical effects of surgery by rotating the mandible to close the open bite. For patients, this broadens their treatment options, making thorough diagnostics essential to decide between traditional orthodontics, TADs, or full surgical correction for the best long-term results.

Double Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery) Procedures

The Two-Phase Treatment Paradigm

Corrective jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is just one step in a comprehensive, multi-year process coordinated by orthodontists and oral maxillofacial surgeons. The treatment unfolds in three primary phases:

• Pre-Surgical Orthodontics: Lasting 12–18 months, this phase uses braces or aligners to move teeth into the ideal position within each jaw, preparing for optimal surgical realignment.
• Surgical Intervention: This is when the jawbones are physically repositioned following orthodontic preparation.
• Post-Surgical Orthodontics: Braces or aligners remain for 6–9 months after surgery to fine-tune tooth positions into the final, stable bite. Afterward, long-term retainer use is needed to preserve the results.

Surgical Techniques in Detail

Double jaw surgery (or bimaxillary osteotomy) involves both the upper and lower jaws, typically requiring two coordinated operations:

• Le Fort I Osteotomy (Upper Jaw Surgery): Accessed from incisions inside the mouth beneath the upper lip (meaning no visible scars), this procedure moves the entire upper jaw upward (impaction) to close the vertical bite gap. The jaw is then fixed with bio-compatible plates and screws.
• Bilateral Sagittal Split Osteotomy (BSSO, Lower Jaw Surgery): Also performed from inside the mouth, the surgeon separates the front of the lower jaw from the portion with the jaw joints, and then moves the jaw segment into the corrected position, securing it with screws or plates.
• Bimaxillary Osteotomy: When both jaws need adjustment, surgeons combine Le Fort I and BSSO procedures to address complex jaw discrepancies or serious facial asymmetry.
• Adjunctive Procedures: For optimal results, additional surgeries like genioplasty (chin surgery), surgically assisted rapid palatal expansion (SARPE), or malar implants may be performed simultaneously to improve facial harmony and balance.

Pre-Surgical Planning and Recovery Timelines

Careful pre-surgical planning is essential. Surgeons use advanced tech—2D/3D photos, digital models, and 3D x-rays (CBCT)—to design a virtual surgery plan and then produce custom 3D-printed surgical splints for precise guidance during the procedure.

Recovery occurs in phases:

• Immediate Post-Op: Patients are closely monitored in the hospital for 1–3 days. Swelling peaks at 48–72 hours and gradually decreases.
• Initial Healing: Over six weeks, bone sets into its new position, and a liquid or no-chew diet helps protect healing structures. After a week or two, light activity is usually possible, and most can return to work or school part-time after two weeks.
• Full Recovery: Initial healing completes in 6–12 weeks. However, minor facial swelling may last up to a year, and numbness in lips, chin, or teeth can take months to improve (and rarely, small numb spots may persist permanently).

Best Clinics in Korea for Open Bite

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for open bite:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Located in Garosu-gil, Gangnam; team of board-certified surgeons: Dr. Kim (rhinoplasty, 3D implants), Dr. Jeong (functional/aesthetic rhinoplasty, society president), Dr. Lee (breast augmentation); 4 purpose-designed floors; world-class care; educators and researchers; personalized, patient-focused approach	Advanced facial contouring, rhinoplasty, revision surgeries, open bite correction, integration of artistry and scientific advances
Made Young Plastic Surgery	Industry-leading clinic; doctors average 15+ years of experience; full-time, board-certified anesthesiologists; cross-check emergency system; dedicated aftercare; award-winning: 2022 Korea No.1 Award, Customer Satisfaction First Place; outstanding society member; gold standard for open bite and patient safety	Advanced facial and anti-aging procedures, comprehensive aftercare, systematic post-procedure recovery, patient-specific techniques for confident, natural results
D.A Plastic Surgery Clinic	Located near Gangnam Station; skilled surgeons; emphasis on personalized care in a safe setting; holistic approach; caters to local and international patients	Smile Triple Jaw Surgery, revision facial contouring, advanced open bite correction, body contouring, breast enhancement, rhinoplasty, lifting, specialized aesthetic treatments

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery clinic, located in the vibrant Garosu-gil district of Gangnam, Seoul, is at the forefront of advanced cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, including the correction of open bite concerns. The clinic is led by a distinguished team of board-certified plastic surgeons: Dr. Kim, Dr. Jeong, and Dr. Lee. Dr. Kim is renowned for his expertise in rhinoplasty and facial contouring, as well as his award-winning research on 3D implants, while Dr. Jeong, currently President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, is internationally recognized for his contributions to functional and aesthetic rhinoplasty. Dr. Lee, specializing in breast augmentation, brings extensive experience from her work at prestigious hospitals across Korea, including Seoul National University Hospital. Together, they combine artistry, scientific advancement, and a personalized approach to ensure each patient achieves natural, balanced, and lasting results.

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery is distinguished not only by its world-class surgical talent but also by its commitment to excellence at every stage of care—from initial consultation to post-operative support. The clinic spans four purpose-designed floors and offers a comprehensive range of services, including facial contouring, rhinoplasty, revision surgeries, and more. The surgeons at THE PLUS are also leading educators and contributors to global medical research, reflecting their ongoing dedication to the highest standards of patient safety, satisfaction, and innovation. Their expertise and philosophy make THE PLUS a trusted destination for those seeking specialized treatment for open bite and related facial concerns in Korea.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Made Young Plastic Surgery

When it comes to treating open bite in Korea, Made Young Plastic Surgery stands apart as the leading clinic, thanks to its unparalleled blend of expertise, safety, and comprehensive patient care. The clinic boasts a verified medical team composed of only the most skilled doctors, each averaging over 15 years of experience and a proven track record in advanced facial and anti-aging procedures. At Made Young, patient safety receives the utmost priority, supported by the presence of full-time, board-certified anesthesiologists who provide one-on-one dedicated monitoring for every patient and a cross-check system to ensure meticulous emergency response. Patients also benefit from a thorough and systematic aftercare program, managed by a specialized post-procedure care center, guaranteeing smoother recovery and optimal results. Recognized with multiple awards, including the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and Korea Customer Satisfaction First Place, and honored as an outstanding member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, Made Young sets the gold standard in both clinical excellence and patient satisfaction. Through their genuine dedication, advanced techniques, and commitment to personalized care, Made Young Plastic Surgery in Seoul’s Gangnam district is widely regarded as the best choice for addressing open bite and achieving confident, natural-looking results.

You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website

D.A Plastic Surgery Clinic

DA Plastic Surgery Clinic, conveniently located near Gangnam Station in Seoul, is a premier destination for those seeking advanced cosmetic procedures in Korea. With a strong commitment to enhancing natural beauty, the clinic offers a wide range of services supported by a team of skilled surgeons and caring staff, ensuring each patient receives highly personalized treatment in a safe and comfortable setting.

Renowned especially for its expertise in facial procedures, DA Plastic Surgery Clinic provides comprehensive solutions for conditions such as open bite through advanced surgical methods like Smile Triple Jaw Surgery and revision facial contouring. The clinic’s holistic approach extends to body contouring, breast enhancement, rhinoplasty, lifting, and other specialized aesthetic treatments, making it a trusted choice for both local and international patients seeking transformative results.

Find more about this clinic here: D.A Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

The Medical Tourist’s Pathway in South Korea

South Korea as a Medical Tourism Hub

South Korea has become a major destination for medical tourism, serving over 2.76 million international patients between 2009 and 2019. The country’s draw for jaw surgery comes from advanced medical technology, skilled surgeons, and high aesthetic standards. The South Korean government supports medical tourism with targeted initiatives and ensures certified hospitals provide specialized services for overseas patients. As a result, medical tourists encounter world-class care, shortened wait times, and a streamlined experience from consultation to recovery.

The Process of Getting Double Jaw Surgery in South Korea

Foreign patients seeking double jaw surgery in Korea follow a well-structured, efficient path:

• Initial Consultation and Assessment: Multidisciplinary teams gather detailed exams (imaging, photos, dental casts) to make a personalized plan—often managed remotely for overseas patients.
• Pre-Surgical Orthodontics: A 12–18 month orthodontic phase prepares teeth for surgery, which can typically be done in the patient’s home country, coordinated with the Korean surgical team.
• Pre-Surgical Preparation: Just before surgery, more imaging (like 3D CT) refines the plan. Patients shift to a liquid diet and undergo anesthesia on surgery day.
• Surgical Procedure: Surgeons access the jaws via the mouth, reposition the bones as planned, and secure them with titanium plates and screws. The operation usually takes 3–5 hours.
• Post-Surgical Recovery and Hospital Stay: There’s typically a 1–3 day hospital stay for monitoring and controlling swelling and pain.
• Follow-Up and Final Recovery Abroad: Patients are advised to stay in Korea for 2–4 weeks post-surgery for close follow-up before returning home.
• Continued Post-Surgical Care: Once home, patients continue with their local orthodontist for final adjustments and long-term retainer use.

Cost Analysis and Financial Comparison

Medical tourists must budget not just for the surgery but also for orthodontics, travel, and accommodation. When comparing surgical fees alone, South Korea is notably competitive with Western countries while still maintaining advanced care.

Comparative Costs of Orthognathic Surgery (South Korea vs. Global)

Country	Price Range (USD)	Average Price (USD)	Notes
South Korea	$15,000 - $25,000	$16,165	Typically includes pre-op consults, hospital stay, post-op care (not orthodontics); 10% deposit customary.
USA	$18,000 - $56,000+	Varies widely	Insurance may help if deemed medically necessary; excludes orthodontic costs.
Thailand	$4,200 - $28,666	$17,783	Varies by clinic; travel and 2–3 week stay required for surgery.
Turkey	$2,200 - $15,000	Varies widely	Very affordable, but cost varies by complexity and provider.
Mexico	$6,000 - $13,300	Varies widely	Fixed competitive prices for single/double/triple jaw procedures.

While the cost savings in Korea are significant, remember that pre-surgical orthodontics—a substantial expense—are not generally included in these prices.

Patient Outcomes and Quality of Life

Functional and Aesthetic Improvements

Double jaw surgery is often transformative for those with skeletal open bite. The procedure can resolve functional problems like an uncomfortable or imbalanced bite, making eating, chewing, and speaking much easier. Patients frequently experience relief from lip and facial muscle strain, TMJ problems, and airway obstructions that cause mouth-breathing or snoring. Aesthetically, it brings facial harmony and balance, and corrects issues like a "gummy smile." While these changes can feel life-changing, they’re often subtle to outside observers.

Psychological and Quality-of-Life Enhancement

The benefits extend beyond the physical. Many patients describe a dramatic increase in well-being, energy, and happiness after surgery. For those who felt self-conscious or faced teasing due to their bite, correction brings boosts in self-esteem and confidence. Eliminating daily frustrations—like struggling with certain foods or dealing with dry mouth—often restores comfort and overall quality of life.

Risks, Stability, and the Potential for Relapse

It’s important to balance these positives with an understanding of potential risks and relapse. Jaw surgery comes with surgical risks: blood loss, infection, or nerve injury that can sometimes cause temporary, or rarely permanent, numbness.

Summary of Potential Risks and Complications

Risk/Side Effect	Description	Typical Resolution Timeline or Likelihood
Swelling & Bruising	Swelling/bruise of face and neck.	Peaks at 48–72 hrs; largely subsides in two weeks, minor swelling up to a year.
Nerve Injury	May cause numbness or altered sensation in lips, face, chin.	Usually resolves in months to a year; rare permanent areas.
Pain & Discomfort	Mild to moderate, managed by medication.	May last 4–6 weeks.
Problems with Jaw Function	Difficulty opening wide, jaw joint problems possible.	Normal function returns in ~8 weeks; new issues should be discussed with surgeon.
Relapse	Jaw/teeth may shift back, reopening the bite.	Relapse rates are 20–44%; can result from muscle, tongue, or tooth-related factors.

One key concern is relapse, where the bite reopens after surgery. Studies on anterior open bite correction suggest relapse occurs in 20–44% of cases. Factors influencing this include muscle forces, tongue habits, and tooth alignment. Interestingly, patients who avoided jaw wire fixation after surgery sometimes had the most stable results—a clue that post-op care choices matter for long-term stability.

Conclusion

Corrective jaw surgery for open bite is a complex, multi-stage process that can dramatically improve function, facial aesthetics, and quality of life—especially for those with skeletal open bite unresponsive to orthodontics alone. South Korea stands out as an attractive option, offering cutting-edge care, expert surgeons, and competitive pricing. While the benefits are substantial, patients should be aware of the commitment required and always consider risks, costs, and possible need for long-term follow-up to ensure stable results.

References

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