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Facial Skeletal Surgery

Maxillary Advancement

Forward movement of the upper jaw to improve midface support, bite, and often airway.

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Region
Maxilla
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia
Theatre time
2–4 hours
Downtime
4–8 weeks

Overview

Maxillary advancement is a directional use of the Le Fort I osteotomy in which the maxilla is moved anteriorly. It is used for maxillary hypoplasia, Class III bite relationships, and to support the paranasal and infraorbital regions.

What it changes

  • Paranasal and infraorbital support
  • Upper lip projection
  • Nasolabial angle
  • Airway dimensions

Common goals

Reduce midface flatness
Correct an underbite
Improve nasal breathing in selected patients

Candidates

General factors a surgeon may consider. Only a qualified surgeon can assess whether you are a candidate.

  • General physical health suitable for the anaesthetic required
  • Realistic, clearly articulated aesthetic or functional goals
  • Stable anatomy appropriate for the technique proposed
  • Non-smoking or willingness to stop for the surgeon's required window

Surgical approach

  1. 01Le Fort I osteotomy with anterior repositioning
  2. 02Bone grafting for larger movements
  3. 03Rigid fixation

Recovery timeline

  1. Day 1

    Immediate post-operative period. Swelling begins, dressings or splints may be in place, supervised rest.

  2. Week 1

    Peak swelling and bruising. Limited activity, soft diet where relevant, first follow-up visit.

  3. Week 2

    Bruising fades. Many people feel socially presentable, light activity resumes.

  4. Week 4

    Most acute swelling resolves. Gradual return to exercise as cleared by the surgeon.

  5. Month 3

    Contours become clearer. Residual swelling continues to settle.

  6. Month 6

    Result is largely representative of the final outcome.

  7. Month 12+

    Final refinement, scar maturation, and revision assessment if needed.

Risks & complications

Bleeding, haematoma, or infection
Temporary or, rarely, permanent nerve disturbance
Asymmetry or an outcome that differs from expectations
Scarring, delayed healing, or wound problems
Anaesthetic risks
Possible need for revision surgery

Limitations

Amount of movement limited by soft tissue and vascular supply
Does not alter nasal cartilage shape

Before & after cases

No verified cases published yet

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Surgeons performing this procedure

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Cost

$18,000 – $60,000

These are broad estimates only. Actual costs vary significantly by country, surgeon, hospital, anaesthesia, imaging, orthodontic treatment, revision policy, and individual complexity. Always obtain a written quotation.

Questions to ask your surgeon

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Information on this platform is for educational purposes and should not replace consultation with a qualified medical professional. Surgical suitability, risks, and expected outcomes must be assessed by an appropriately qualified surgeon.