When I was 19, I underwent an osteotomy procedure on my maxilla to expand both forward and transverse. There was only so much expansion possible due to the limitations of the bone grafts (my inter-molar width went from something like 23 mm to about 34 mm).
I still have a class III malocclusion both forward and transverse. My inter-molar width of my lower jaw is about 45 mm. I still have a "sunken-in" midface (though not as bad as before the osteotomy). I'm 41 now, BTW.
I should also point out that up until I had a (different) operation on my nose last year, I was unable to breathe through my nose. Now that I can, I've been exploring new possibilities to further expand my maxilla.
I'm looking into the possibility of using an expansion appliance, but the thought occurred to me, would the microplates (titanium pieces of metal used during the operation to hold the pieces of the maxilla together) potentially interfere with future expansion?
I went to an orthodontist today. This particular one strictly does braces/invisalign which of course wouldn't solve my significant width difference between lower and upper, but they might be able to help with the edge-to-edge occlusion of the front teeth. They referred me to another orthodontist that works in conjunction with a maxillofacial expert, and when I go I'll explore their options. She also suggested that any such expert might consider making my lower jaw narrower (if possible) rather than expand the palate, noting that I have an exceptionally wide lower jaw. I'd rather make the upper jaw bigger and leave the lower alone.
Does anyone have advice on what particular appliances and/or procedures I should ask about (such as MSE)? My goal is to expand the width and length of my upper jaw rather than simply move the teeth within the jaws as they are now. I've attached pictures (with different angles and lighting). The second pic highlights the left side which has a bigger width difference between lower/upper than the right side. I'm guessing I'll need at least 10mm of horizontal expansion and perhaps 5 or 6mm forward.
Skull and Jaw Correction
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