Surgical assisted rapid maxillary expansion (SARME) (Upper jaw expansion surgery)
What is SARME?
A surgical assisted rapid maxillary expansion is performed in conjunction with orthodontic treatment. The aim is to increase the width of the upper jaw.
Why should I have SARME?
Sometimes your narrow upper jaw may cause a cross bite or crowding of teeth. In order to give you enough space, a maxillary expansion surgery can be performed to provide you with more space.
What does a expansion surgery involve?
Before your surgery the orthodontist will place an expansion device in your mouth which will help guide the separation of the upper jaw segments.
The expansion surgery involves making small cuts in the gum and in the bone. The upper jawbone is cut in specific areas so that it can have symmetrical bone expansion.
Your gum will have some stitches put in at the end of the procedure.
Where will I have my surgery?
The surgery will be undertaken in a private hospital in Canberra.
Surgically Assisted Palatal Expansion.
How long is the recovery after SARME?
You will stay in hospital overnight. The recovery period is about 1-2 weeks. We recommend no strenuous physical activity for 3 -4 weeks. The stitches will dissolve after 1-2 weeks.
To help with the swelling we recommend you place ice packs on the face for the first 24 hrs.
You should ensure you drink plenty of fluids and soft nourishing food in the first 24 hrs.