Maxillofacial procedures refer to a broad range of surgical techniques and treatments that are specifically employed to address conditions and disorders affecting the face, jaw, and mouth. Derived from the combination of the terms "maxillo-" (relating to the jaws) and "facial" (pertaining to the face), these interventions are typically performed by a specialized maxillofacial surgeon or oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
These procedures can encompass various aspects of the craniofacial region, including the jawbones, facial bones, teeth, salivary glands, and soft tissues. Maxillofacial procedures are performed to correct congenital defects, manage traumatic injuries, alleviate infections or tumors, treat temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ), address oral and facial pain, repair facial fractures, and correct facial deformities or imbalances.
The techniques utilized in maxillofacial procedures are diverse, ranging from complex reconstructive surgeries to simpler oral surgeries. Examples of these procedures include orthognathic surgery (jaw realignment), facial trauma reconstruction, dental implant placement, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) surgery, cleft lip and palate repair, tumor removal, cosmetic facial surgery, and corrective jaw surgery.
Maxillofacial procedures often involve a multidisciplinary approach, with collaboration between oral and maxillofacial surgeons, plastic surgeons, otolaryngologists, dentists, orthodontists, and other specialists. The goals of these interventions are to restore function, enhance aesthetics, relieve pain, and improve the overall quality of life for patients with conditions affecting the face, jaw, and mouth.
