Last update : 22/10/2026

Jaw (orthognathic) surgery in Turkey | Costs, recovery & risks

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Orthognathic surgery is a specialized maxillofacial surgical procedure designed to correct abnormal jaw positions. It restores facial harmony and optimizes chewing function by repositioning the jaws.

In Turkey, this surgery can be performed before, during or after orthodontic treatment, depending on the needs of each patient.

Jaw surgery cost in Turkey

The cost of orthognathic surgery in Turkey varies based on the specific jaw misalignment, surgical technique, and whether you need extras like bone grafts.

Surgeons working in Istanbul, Izmir, Ankara, Antalya, and Bursa offer personalized pricing. The price displayed on this page is an indicative estimate: the final price is set by a personalized quote after review of your medical file, and it may be higher. The amount labeled "Package price" is not a prepaid all-inclusive offer: you pay the clinic directly, according to the quote it issues for your case. Travel costs, flight tickets and any additional care or tests are not included. Request a free quote and speak with a consultant online about your questions.

Risks and Side Effects

This list is not exhaustive. It separates the effects that are expected after surgery and are usually temporary from the complications that can occur. The figures come from published series that differ in methods and definitions, so they are indicative and not a promise for your case.

Expected effects, usually temporary

Facial swelling (edema),which usually improves over 2 to 4 weeks.
Stuffy nose, especially after upper jaw surgery.
Pain, managed with the medication prescribed by your surgeon.
Numbness or tingling of the lower lip, chin or cheeks, which is very common in the first weeks and often improves over weeks to months.

Complications that can occur

Lasting numbness (neurosensory disturbance): it can be lasting in some patients and is among the most common complications of jaw surgery. After lower jaw surgery (sagittal split osteotomy),sensory impairment was still present one year later in about 13% to 18% of patients in a systematic review (Neurosensory disturbance of the inferior alveolar nerve after bilateral sagittal split osteotomy, Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 2007),with lower figures in some series.
Bleeding: uncommon but potentially serious, particularly in upper jaw surgery. Severe bleeding requiring a transfusion has been reported in about 1% of patients after Le Fort I osteotomy (retrospective review of complications in 85 orthognathic patients). It can require a procedure to control the bleeding.
Infection: a potential risk, reported in roughly 1% to 10% of patients depending on the study and the procedure, and more often after lower jaw surgery than after upper jaw surgery (A comprehensive review of orthognathic surgery: Fixation, relapse, and complications, 2022). It may require antibiotics, drainage or, occasionally, removal of the plates or screws.
Relapse: the jaws or the bite can partially move back toward their original position. Reported rates vary widely between studies depending on the technique and the fixation, and relapse was about 4% in one review of complications. It may require further orthodontic treatment or a further operation.
Temporomandibular joint (jaw joint) problems, reported in about 14% of patients in one review of complications, or a bite that is not satisfactory and needs further orthodontic or surgical adjustment.
Unplanned bone fracture during lower jaw surgery (bad split): a serious complication. In a systematic review and meta-analysis it occurred in about 2.3% of split sides (Steenen et al.),with a very wide range between studies (from about 0.2% to 23%). It may require additional fixation and, in some cases, further surgery.
Changes in the shape of the nose after upper jaw surgery.
Risks related to general anesthesia.

Some of these complications (bad split, relapse, infection, bleeding, a bite that remains unsatisfactory) may require follow-up surgery. Reported overall complication rates vary widely depending on the definitions used, from about 4% to 9% for upper jaw (midface) osteotomies to more than 40% when all functional complications are counted (review articles). Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you before the operation.

Why choose Jaw surgery with Turquie Santé ?

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Detailed quote (included / not included) before your stay

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All about your Jaw surgery in Turkey

Overview

Alternative care

Benefits

Payment

Intervention or treatment's duration :

1.5 to 3 hours for single jaw surgery; 3 to 5 hours for double jaw surgery

Recovery time :

Work leave or absence from school: 2 weeks to a month
Duration of facial edema: 15 days to 1 month
Exemption from sports activities: 2 months
Diet: liquids for the first two days, then blended or soft foods for about 6 weeks, until your surgeon allows normal chewing (often after 6 to 8 weeks)
Driving: do not drive while you are taking prescription painkillers or sedatives, or while pain, swelling or limited jaw movement affects your reactions. Ask your surgeon when you can resume
Air travel: do not fly until your surgeon has cleared you. After upper jaw surgery, some centers advise sinus precautions for at least 4 weeks, including no flying (patient instructions of the McGill University oral and maxillofacial surgery service). Plan your stay and your return date with your surgeon before traveling

Alternative treatments

Highly qualified professionals in accredited institutions.

We assist you before, during, and after your trip

A detailed quote is presented to you before your stay. Our support is free for the patient and any fees are specified in advance.

You will pay your clinic directly using these available methods:

🌟 Package Jaw surgery

VIP Airport shuttle
3 Meals per day in clinic
Transportation Hotel / Clinic
Medications in hospital
Medical control
Interpreter service in clinic
Doctor visit
Turquie Santé Assistance 7 days/7
6 Nights 4* hotel with breakfast
1 Night hospitalization
Laboratory analyzes
Your surgery

Package price :

10 700 $

Medical advice & quote Indicative, non-binding estimate: the final price is set only by a personalised quote after review of your medical file, and may be higher. Travel costs, flight tickets and any additional care or tests are not included.

Verified testimonials from our patients

Chloe M.
Verified review
I traveled to Turkey for jaw surgery. What first convinced me was the value for money, but also how well everything was organized from the very beginning. Emily was my point of contact throughout the whole process, and honestly she was amazing alway..Read more
28/02/2026
This patient was treated for Jaw surgery

Harper J.
Verified review
I underwent jaw surgery due to misalignment. The doctor took the time to listen to me before the procedure and fully understood my expectations and goals. During the operation, I felt nothing, and everything went very smoothly. Recovery does require ..Read more
27/10/2025
This patient was treated for Jaw surgery

Miguel T.
Verified review
I chose Turkey because it was cheaper and faster. The clinic in Istanbul was modern and the surgeon very competent. Everything was taken care of (transport, hotel) and the price was unbeatable. The only negative point that is follow -up after the ret..Read more
21/08/2025
This patient was treated for Jaw surgery

Silva B.
Verified review
I had a breast biopsy following an ultrasound in Memorial Sisli in Istanbul. The procedure was carried out under local anesthesia and well passed, the results were communicated quickly, which allowed me to make quick decisions concerning my treatment..Read more
21/08/2025
This patient was treated for Jaw surgery

Redi A.
Verified review
I had a great experience for my surgery. All of the staff were very friendly and helpful and made me feel at ease. The trip was well organised and I would feel comfortable doing it all again.
21/06/2026
This patient was treated for Genioplasty

Geerts M.
Verified review
Literally every appointment went wrong, there needs to be a better communication. Also there was no interpreter available most of the time, this was making things even more difficult and frustrating. The hotel is nice, the hospital and the docter are..Read more
09/06/2026
This patient was treated for Genioplasty

Benakka R.
Verified review
Perfect nose surgery, Me who stressed a lot to have pain honestly 0 pain after the operation. The clinic took excellent care of me. The surgeon did exactly what I asked him to do.
05/06/2026
This patient was treated for Rhinoplasty - Nose Job

ANTOINE M.
Verified review
I am very satisfied with the organization of the medical stay. NACIM was responsive and present to all my questions. Dr. Ergin ER, nursing staff, clinic, interpreters, hotel and driver exceeded all my expectations.
20/05/2026
This patient was treated for Rhinoplasty - Nose Job

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Emily White : Medical Content Team Manager at Turquie Santé

Written by

Emily White

This content complies with the editorial policy of Turquie Santé. It was written by Emily White, Head of the Editorial Team, who has over 11 years of experience in scientific research and clinic management in Turkey. She ensures the reliability of medical information while making complex data accessible to everyone.

Medically reviewed by : Op.Dr. Murat YAMAN M.D

Specialty : Cosmetic Surgery
Diploma no. (TTB) : 119373

Medical review does not replace an individual consultation.

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Certifications :

DENT AKADEMI

Istanbul, Turkey

Asoc. Prof. Dr. Nurettin Diker

13 years of experience

(30 Reviews)

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HISAR INTERCONTINENTAL

Istanbul, Turkey

OP. Dr. Hasan Sahin

19 years of experience

(221 Reviews)

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AMERICAN HOSPITAL

Istanbul, Turkey

Dr. Aylin Pelin Çil

28 years of experience

Dr.Aylin Şimşek

21 years of experience

(5 Reviews)

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MEMORIAL Şişli

Istanbul, Turkey

MD Ahmet ARPACI

46 years of experience

Prof. Dr. Ahmet Nevzat Nayır

41 years of experience

(34 Reviews)

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Certifications :

MEMORIAL ANKARA

Ankara, Turkey

Prof. Dr. Ferit AVCU

39 years of experience

Uzm. Dr. Ömer Aşkın DÖĞERLİOĞLU

34 years of experience

(2 Reviews)

Certifications :

Leed Platinium Certificate MEMORIAL Bahçelievler

MEMORIAL Bahçelievler

Istanbul, Turkey

Prof. Ediz ALTINLI

36 years of experience

Prof. Dr. Mustafa Tonguç İşken

27 years of experience

(23 Reviews)

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Estethica

Istanbul, Turkey

DYT. SELİN ŞAHİN

OP. DR. UĞUR ÖZDEMİR

(3 Reviews)

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🩺 Medical note — The content of this page is provided for information purposes and in accordance with our medical charter. It does not constitute medical advice and does not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional. Prices are indicative and will be specified in a personalized quote after reviewing your file. Any treatment must be assessed and approved by a qualified doctor.

Orthognathic surgery: What is it?

Jaw surgery, known as orthognathic surgery, corrects misalignments affecting the jaws. These can stem from skeletal problems or dental issues.

This procedure addresses several common concerns:

Misaligned jaws: Whether your upper jaw sits too far back or protrudes too much, repositioning can restore facial harmony.
Bite problems: When you struggle to close your mouth fully, precise jaw realignment often provides the solution.
Protruding lower jaw: A forward chin can be moved back, improving both balance and chewing function.

No two cases are identical. Your surgeon may move one or both jaws forward, backward, upward, or downward based on what you need. The goal is always twofold: restoring facial harmony while fixing functional issues like difficulty chewing, breathing problems, or speech challenges. These adjustments enhance your smile's appearance while tackling the underlying dental and skeletal concerns.

Jaw surgery techniques

Several surgical approaches exist, each tailored to your specific condition:

Mandibular osteotomy: This modifies the lower jaw's size and position, correcting a weak chin, protruding jaw, or other alignment issues.
Maxillary osteotomy: Working on the upper jaw, this technique fixes bite problems, reduces an overly prominent upper jaw, or reshapes the face.
Genioplasty (chin surgery): This reshapes your chin by strengthening, reducing, or modifying it to balance your overall facial profile.

Preoperative phase for jaw surgery

Orthognathic surgery demands personalized preparation. Your initial consultation with the surgeon explores your expectations, concerns, and available options for your particular case.

Advanced imaging (X-rays, dental molds, 3D reconstructions) helps your surgeon and orthodontist build a detailed treatment roadmap. This collaborative approach supports both functional and aesthetic goals.

During your visit, simulations show a possible outcome; the final result may differ. You can ask questions and address any worries before moving forward. The entire process is designed so that you enter surgery informed about the expected results, the risks and the limits of the procedure.

Orthognathic surgery process in Turkey

On surgery day, you'll arrive at one of our partner hospitals in Turkey. Once anesthesia takes effect, you feel nothing during the procedure.

Most incisions happen inside your mouth, minimizing visible scars. Thin titanium plates or screws anchor the repositioned bone while it heals. These biocompatible materials hold the bone in position during healing.

Your surgeon customizes the approach to match your needs. Bone grafts or additional adjustments may be included if your case requires them.

To maximize facial harmony, chin surgery often happens alongside jaw surgery if your profile requires it.

Like any surgery performed under general anesthesia, jaw surgery carries risks, such as bleeding, infection, numbness and relapse, and other complications such as an unplanned bone fracture, some of which may require further surgery. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you before the operation.

Orthognathic surgery process in Turkey 2026

Recovery from jaw surgery

Recovering from orthognathic surgery takes time and commitment. Following your surgeon's guidance supports healing, and most patients regain comfort over the following weeks, although full recovery can take several months.

The first few weeks

Early recovery brings predictable changes:

Swelling and pain: Facial puffiness and discomfort are expected. Pain varies from person to person and is managed with the medication prescribed by your surgeon. Cold masks or ice packs help reduce swelling.
Numbness: Feeling numb around your lower lip and chin is common. Sensation often returns gradually over weeks to months, but numbness can be lasting in some patients.
Nutrition: You start with liquids, then soft foods. Supplements ensure you get needed nutrients while eating remains limited.
Elastic bands and physiotherapy: An orthotic brace and physical therapy sessions support healing and alignment.

Bone consolidation

For roughly six weeks, avoid activities that could impact your face. Close adherence to your surgeon's instructions matters most during this phase.

Once bone heals completely, orthodontic refinement polishes the final result.

Convalescence period

You'll need to modify daily habits temporarily. Rest and follow your surgeon's and physical therapist's advice for best results.

Psychological support is available if adjustment proves challenging.

Follow-up visits track your healing progress and address any concerns.

Results of orthognathic surgery

Orthognathic surgery can improve both appearance and function. Right after surgery, your teeth align differently, which can make eating and speaking easier once healing is complete.

Over the following weeks, facial swelling subsides and your new facial contours emerge progressively.

By around month six, the aesthetic outcome is usually well established, although final results can take up to a year. In the long term, many patients keep a stable bite and good chewing function. However, relapse can occur, and some patients have lasting numbness or need further adjustments.

Systematic reviews report generally high patient satisfaction and quality-of-life improvements (Zamboni et al., International Journal of Dentistry, 2019),but satisfaction varies between patients and results cannot be guaranteed. Post-operative recovery demands patience, and the decision should be made after discussing the expected benefits and the risks with your surgeon.

Jaw surgery FAQ

At what age can a person undergo a jaw surgery in Turkey?

Jaw surgery is generally performed once facial bone growth is complete. As a rough guide, this tends to be in the mid to late teens for females and the late teens to early twenties for males, but it varies from person to person. In some severe cases (for example, serious breathing or functional problems),surgery may be considered earlier. There is no strict upper age limit, provided you are in good general health. The right timing is decided by a maxillofacial surgeon together with an orthodontist, based on your skeletal maturity (often confirmed with X-rays) and your overall health.

How long does recovery take after jaw surgery?

Recovery after jaw surgery happens in stages and varies from patient to patient. Swelling and discomfort are usually greatest in the first days and improve over the following weeks. Most patients need a liquid or soft diet for several weeks, and many can return to light activities such as desk work or school after about 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the procedure and your surgeon's advice. The bones usually heal enough for a gradual return to a normal diet after roughly 6 to 8 weeks, but complete bone consolidation, final swelling resolution and sensation recovery can take several months, and up to a year in some cases. Strenuous exercise and contact sports should be avoided until your surgeon allows them. Regular follow-up with your surgeon and orthodontist is essential throughout the process.

Would I have scars due to jaw surgery?

In most cases, the incisions for jaw surgery are made inside the mouth, so there are usually no visible scars on the face. In some situations, depending on the type of surgery and the technique used, a small external incision may be needed (for example, to place fixation screws or access the jaw). When this is the case, it is usually placed under the jaw or in a natural skin fold to make it as discreet as possible, and it typically fades over time without disappearing completely. You can discuss the planned incisions with your surgeon before the operation.

Would I feel plates and screws attached to my jawbone?

Usually, patients do not complain of discomfort or pain due to plates and screws attached to their jaws after their recovery.

What is the success rate of maxillofacial surgery in Turkey?

There is no single success rate for jaw surgery, because success depends on what is measured: bite and chewing function, facial balance, or patient satisfaction. Systematic reviews report generally high patient satisfaction and quality-of-life improvements after orthognathic surgery (Zamboni et al., International Journal of Dentistry, 2019),but results vary from one patient to another and cannot be guaranteed. Dissatisfaction is more frequent when the treatment is long, when function is impaired afterwards, or when expectations were unrealistic or the risks were not clearly explained (Angle Orthodontist, 2015). Complications such as numbness, relapse or the need for further adjustments can occur. Discuss the expected results and the risks with your surgeon before deciding.

When should I eat after jaw surgery?

Jaw consolidation takes almost six weeks after maxillofacial surgery. This is the right time to resume normal eating, necessitating chewing. Before this period, food should be liquid and then blended.