Maxillofacial surgery, also known as oral and maxillofacial surgery, is a specialty of dentistry that involves the diagnosis, treatment, and management of disorders and injuries of the mouth, jaw, face, and neck.

Maxillofacial surgery may be used to treat a variety of conditions, including:

• Jaw misalignment and malocclusion (misaligned teeth)
• Facial trauma and fractures
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
• Cleft lip and palate
• Oral cancer and other tumors of the head and neck
• Sleep apnea and snoring
• Impacted wisdom teeth

The procedures involved in maxillofacial surgery may vary depending on the specific condition being treated. Common procedures include:

• Orthognathic surgery to correct jaw misalignment and malocclusion
• Reconstruction of facial bones after trauma or injury
• Removal of tumors or lesions in the head and neck
• Dental implant surgery
• Wisdom tooth extraction
• Corrective surgery for cleft lip and palate

Maxillofacial surgery is typically performed by a specialist oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who has completed specialized training in the field. The procedures may be performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity and duration of the procedure.

Recovery time and aftercare instructions will vary depending on the specific procedure performed, and patients should follow their surgeon’s instructions carefully to ensure a successful outcome.