If you have been researching jaw surgery in Turkey, you are already exploring one of the most life-changing procedures available in modern oral and maxillofacial surgery. Whether you are considering surgery to correct an overbite, underbite, open bite or facial asymmetry -or you have been recommended double jaw surgery for a more complex correction - …
If you have been researching jaw surgery in Turkey, you are already exploring one of the most life-changing procedures available in modern oral and maxillofacial surgery. Whether you are considering surgery to correct an overbite, underbite, open bite or facial asymmetry -or you have been recommended double jaw surgery for a more complex correction – Istanbul has world-class oral surgeons who perform these procedures at a fraction of the cost in the UK or United States.
This guide explains everything: what jaw surgery involves, who it is suitable for, how single and double jaw procedures differ, what the recovery looks like, and how to plan your treatment in Istanbul. At Bilim Dental Clinic, our oral and maxillofacial surgery team treats both functional and aesthetic jaw conditions for international patients – this guide draws from our direct clinical experience.
What Is Jaw Surgery?
Jaw surgery – known medically as orthognathic surgery – is a surgical procedure that repositions one or both of the jaws to correct functional or aesthetic problems that cannot be resolved through dental treatment or orthodontics alone. It is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, often in coordination with an orthodontist.
The goals of jaw surgery vary by patient. For some, the primary motivation is functional: correcting a bite that causes difficulty chewing, speaking or breathing. For others, the goal is primarily aesthetic: improving facial balance, profile and the overall harmony of facial features. In many cases, both functional and aesthetic improvements are achieved simultaneously.
Types of Jaw Surgery
| Procedure | Also Known As | What It Corrects | Jaws Involved |
| Single jaw surgery (upper) | Le Fort I osteotomy | Open bite, crossbite, upper jaw position | Upper jaw only |
| Single jaw surgery (lower) | BSSO (Bilateral Sagittal Split) | Underbite, overbite, lower jaw position | Lower jaw only |
| Double jaw surgery | Bimax / Bimaxillary osteotomy | Complex bite issues, facial asymmetry, severe under/overbite | Both jaws simultaneously |
| Genioplasty | Chin surgery | Chin position and projection | Chin bone only |
| Jaw reduction | Mandibular reduction | Overly prominent jaw, facial slimming | Lower jaw |
Jaw Surgery vs. Orthodontics – What Is the Difference?
Orthodontic treatment (braces or aligners) moves the teeth within the jaw. Jaw surgery moves the jaw bones themselves. For patients with moderate bite issues, orthodontics alone may be sufficient. For patients with significant skeletal discrepancies – where the jaw bones themselves are positioned incorrectly – surgery is the only way to achieve a stable, functional correction. In many jaw surgery cases, a period of orthodontic treatment before and after surgery is part of the overall treatment plan.
Who Is a Candidate for Jaw Surgery?
Jaw surgery may be recommended for patients who experience:
- Difficulty chewing or biting due to a misaligned bite (underbite, overbite, open bite or crossbite)
- Chronic jaw pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems related to jaw position
- Sleep apnoea or breathing difficulties linked to jaw structure
- Speech difficulties caused by jaw misalignment
- Significant facial asymmetry that cannot be corrected by orthodontics alone
- A receding or protruding chin or jaw that affects facial balance
- Difficulty fully closing the lips at rest
Jaw surgery is typically considered when facial growth is complete – usually from the late teens onwards for most patients. Our surgical team will carry out a thorough assessment to confirm whether you are a suitable candidate and which procedure is most appropriate for your situation.
Double Jaw Surgery in Turkey – What Is It?
Double jaw surgery – also called bimaxillary osteotomy or bimax surgery – involves repositioning both the upper jaw (maxilla) and the lower jaw (mandible) simultaneously in a single operation. It is recommended for patients with more complex skeletal discrepancies, where correcting only one jaw would produce an unbalanced or suboptimal result.
Double jaw surgery is a more complex procedure than single jaw surgery and requires a highly experienced maxillofacial surgeon. The results, however, are transformative – both functionally and aesthetically. Patients often report not only an improved bite and easier eating, but a significant improvement in facial harmony and self-confidence.
Why Choose Turkey for Jaw Surgery?
Significant Cost Savings
Jaw surgery costs in the UK and United States are very high – single jaw surgery in the UK can cost between £10,000 and £20,000 privately, and double jaw surgery substantially more. In Istanbul, the same procedures are performed by equally qualified surgeons at a fraction of these prices, even when flights and accommodation are factored in.
Experienced Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
Turkey’s major cities – particularly Istanbul – have a well-developed maxillofacial surgery community with surgeons who have trained both domestically and internationally. Many Turkish oral and maxillofacial surgeons have completed fellowships or postgraduate training in Europe, and operate to international standards. At Bilim Dental Clinic, our surgical team has extensive experience in orthognathic procedures for both domestic and international patients.
Modern Hospital Facilities
Jaw surgery is performed under general anaesthesia in a fully equipped hospital or surgical centre. Istanbul has numerous accredited facilities with modern anaesthesia, imaging and post-operative care capabilities that meet international standards.
Coordinated Orthodontic and Surgical Care
Most jaw surgery patients require orthodontic treatment before and after the surgical procedure. At Bilim Dental Clinic, we coordinate the full treatment journey – liaising with orthodontists, planning the surgical timeline and supporting patients at every stage, including after they return home.
The Jaw Surgery Process: What to Expect
Stage 1: Initial Assessment and Planning
Jaw surgery begins well before the operation itself. The first step is a comprehensive clinical assessment including facial photographs, dental impressions or digital scans, panoramic X-rays and a 3D CBCT scan. Using specialist planning software, our surgical team designs the precise movements required for your jaw correction, with predicted outcomes shown in advance.
Stage 2: Pre-Surgical Orthodontics (if required)
Many patients require a period of orthodontic treatment – typically 6 to 18 months – before surgery. The purpose is to align the teeth correctly within each jaw so that they will fit together properly after the jaws are repositioned. Your orthodontist and surgeon work together throughout this phase.
Stage 3: The Operation
Jaw surgery is performed under general anaesthesia in hospital, typically taking 2 to 4 hours depending on the complexity of the procedure. The surgeon makes incisions inside the mouth – there are no visible external scars – and uses precision instruments to cut, reposition and secure the jaw bones using small titanium plates and screws. These fixation devices are permanent and are not usually removed.
Stage 4: Hospital Stay and Immediate Recovery
Most patients stay in hospital for 1 to 3 nights following jaw surgery. Swelling, bruising and some discomfort are normal in the first two weeks. A soft or liquid diet is required for 6 to 8 weeks while the bones heal. Most patients return to normal activities within 2 to 4 weeks and to work within 3 to 4 weeks, depending on the nature of their job.
Stage 5: Post-Surgical Orthodontics and Follow-Up
After surgery, a further period of orthodontic treatment – typically 6 to 12 months – fine-tunes the bite. Remote follow-up appointments with Bilim Dental Clinic can be conducted online, and we liaise with your local orthodontist throughout this phase.
Jaw Surgery Recovery – What Patients Need to Know
Recovery from jaw surgery is a gradual process. Here is a realistic timeline:
| Timeframe | What to Expect |
| Days 1–3 | Hospital stay. Significant swelling, bruising. Liquid diet. Pain managed with medication. |
| Week 1–2 | Swelling peaks then begins to reduce. Soft diet continues. Rest recommended. |
| Week 3–4 | Most patients return to light work and daily activities. Swelling noticeably reducing. |
| Week 6–8 | Soft diet transitions to normal foods. Bone healing largely complete. |
| Month 3–6 | Residual swelling fully resolves. Final result begins to emerge. |
| Month 12+ | Full result visible. Post-surgical orthodontics nearing completion. |
Jaw Surgery Risks and Safety
Jaw surgery is a major surgical procedure and, like all surgery, carries risks. These include swelling and bruising (expected), temporary numbness of the lips or chin (usually resolves within months), infection, relapse of jaw position, and anaesthesia-related risks. The risk of serious complications is low when surgery is performed by an experienced maxillofacial surgeon in an accredited facility.
Choosing the right surgeon and facility is the most important factor in minimising risk. We recommend:
- Verifying your surgeon’s qualifications and specific orthognathic surgery experience
- Ensuring surgery is performed in an accredited hospital, not a dental clinic setting
- Reviewing before-and-after cases from the surgeon’s own patients
- Having a clear plan for follow-up care before you travel
Frequently Asked Questions About Jaw Surgery in Turkey
How much is jaw surgery in Turkey?
Jaw surgery costs vary significantly depending on the type of procedure, the complexity of your case and the specific facility used. We do not publish fixed prices because every case is different. Contact us with your clinical information and we will provide a personalised, transparent cost estimate.
How much is double jaw surgery in Turkey?
Double jaw surgery (bimaxillary osteotomy) is more complex than single jaw surgery and costs reflect this. Even so, the savings compared to UK or US private prices are very substantial. Send us your clinical records for a personalised quote – our team will provide a full breakdown of all associated costs.
How much does double jaw surgery cost in Turkey compared to the UK?
In the UK, double jaw surgery privately costs significantly more than in Turkey – often several times the Istanbul price. Many patients find that even after accounting for flights, accommodation and associated costs, treatment in Istanbul is far more affordable. Contact us for a direct comparison based on your specific case.
How long does jaw surgery take?
The surgical procedure itself takes 2 to 4 hours depending on complexity. Single jaw procedures are typically faster; double jaw surgery takes longer. The full treatment journey – including pre-surgical orthodontics, surgery, recovery and post-surgical orthodontics – spans 12 to 24 months in total.
Will jaw surgery change my appearance?
Yes – orthognathic surgery typically produces significant improvements in facial balance, profile and overall harmony. The extent of change depends on the degree of correction required. Our surgical team uses 3D planning software to generate predicted outcome simulations before surgery begins, so you can see the anticipated result in advance.
Is jaw surgery in Turkey safe?
Yes, when performed by a qualified maxillofacial surgeon in an accredited hospital facility. Turkey has well-trained oral and maxillofacial surgeons and modern hospital infrastructure in Istanbul. As with any surgical procedure, thorough pre-operative assessment and choosing the right surgeon and facility are critical.
Do I need orthodontics before jaw surgery?
In most cases, yes. Pre-surgical orthodontics – typically 6 to 18 months of braces or aligners – aligns the teeth within each jaw before the surgical repositioning. This phase is essential for achieving a stable, functional bite after surgery. Our team coordinates the full treatment plan including the orthodontic phases.
Why Choose Bilim Dental Clinic for Jaw Surgery in Istanbul?
Bilim Dental Clinic is based in Istanbul and provides oral and maxillofacial surgical services for both domestic and international patients, including orthognathic and double jaw surgery.
- Free online consultation with clinical assessment
- Experienced oral and maxillofacial surgery team
- 3D CBCT scanning and digital surgical planning
- Coordinated care: surgery, orthodontics and aftercare in one place
- English and German-speaking patient coordinators
- Accredited hospital facilities for surgical procedures
- Airport transfers and accommodation support
- Remote post-operative follow-up after you return home
Jaw surgery is one of the most significant decisions you can make for your health, function and appearance. If you are considering jaw surgery in Turkey, we encourage you to reach out for a free, no-obligation consultation. Send us your X-rays, scans and clinical history and our team will provide a personalised assessment.
Contact Bilim Dental Clinic today – your jaw surgery journey starts here.
