What does a maxillofacial surgeon do?
A maxillofacial surgeon diagnoses and treats problems related to the bones and soft tissues of the face, mouth and jaw. Their work includes tooth extractions, jaw realignment, trauma repair, tumour removal and facial reconstruction.
When should I see a maxillofacial surgeon?
You should consult a maxillofacial surgeon if you have jaw pain, difficulty chewing, facial trauma, impacted teeth, or deformities. They also treat sleep apnoea, bruxism and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Is maxillofacial surgery painful?
Thanks to modern anaesthesia and sedation techniques, most maxillofacial procedures are painless. Postoperative discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with prescribed medication.
What is the recovery time after maxillofacial surgery?
Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery. Minor procedures like tooth extractions heal within a few days, while major surgeries such as orthognathic surgery may require several weeks.