Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery
Mr Alex Hills is an experienced Consultant Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon specialising in orthognathic (jaw) surgery for patients with jaw alignment problems that affect facial balance, bite, speech, breathing, and long-term dental health.
Jaw discrepancies can lead to difficulty chewing, jaw pain, facial asymmetry, speech problems, excessive tooth wear, and, in some cases, breathing or sleep-related concerns. Orthognathic surgery corrects the position of the upper and/or lower jaws to improve function, comfort, and facial harmony.
Conditions treated
Orthognathic surgery may be recommended for:
Prominent or retruded upper or lower jaws
Facial asymmetry or imbalance
Severe overbite, underbite, or open bite
Difficulty biting or chewing due to jaw mismatch
Jaw-related speech or breathing problems
Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP)
Mr Hills routinely uses Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP) as part of modern jaw surgery.
VSP involves creating a 3D digital model of the face and jaws using specialised scans. This allows the surgery to be carefully planned in advance, with jaw movements precisely mapped before the operation takes place.
For patients, this means:
Greater accuracy and predictability of jaw positioning
Surgery that is fully planned before the day of operation
A clearer explanation of the planned changes
Custom surgical guides designed specifically for the individual patient
VSP supports safer surgery and helps achieve consistent, high-quality outcomes, particularly in complex cases.
The treatment journey
Orthognathic treatment is a planned process carried out in close collaboration with an orthodontist and typically includes:
Detailed assessment and digital planning, including VSP
Pre- and post-operative orthodontic treatment
Jaw surgery under general anaesthetic
Structured follow-up to support recovery and long-term results
What patients can expect
A thorough consultation with time to discuss concerns and goals
Clear explanation of treatment options, risks, and recovery
Surgery performed in a specialist hospital environment
Ongoing support before and after surgery
Mr Hills has extensive experience in orthognathic surgery and has held a national leadership role in orthognathic outcomes through the Quality Outcomes in Maxillofacial Surgery (QOMS) programme, reflecting his commitment to high standards of care.
