In this guide, we explain orthognathic jaw surgery in clear terms so you can make confident decisions for yourself or your child. As Specialist Orthodontists in Melbourne, the team at Angle House Orthodontics works closely with oral and maxillofacial surgeons to plan safe, predictable outcomes and support you at every step.

What is orthognathic jaw surgery?

Orthognathic surgery is a planned procedure that repositions one or both jaws to improve how your teeth meet and how your face functions. It is commonly combined with orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners, to align the teeth before and after surgery.

While the idea of surgery can sound daunting, for the right patient it can significantly improve chewing, speech, breathing, and facial balance.

Common reasons orthognathic surgery may be recommended include:

• Significant overbite, underbite, or crossbite that braces alone cannot correct
• Jaw growth differences affecting facial symmetry
• Sleep apnoea with a structural jaw cause
• Long-term bite strain, jaw pain, or tooth wear due to poor bite alignment
• Difficulty chewing certain foods or ongoing speech articulation concerns

How the process works in Melbourne

Every treatment plan is personalised, but most patients follow three key phases:

Assessment and planning

We take detailed records, scans, and X-rays and coordinate with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. You will review treatment options, expected outcomes, and a clear timeline. At our Balwyn clinic, X-rays can be taken on-site to streamline this stage.

Pre-surgical orthodontics

Braces or aligners are used to position the teeth so they fit together correctly after the jaws are repositioned. This phase typically takes between 9 and 18 months, depending on the complexity of your case.

Surgery and finishing orthodontics

Jaw surgery is performed in hospital under general anaesthetic. Once initial healing is complete, we fine-tune the bite with orthodontics and provide retainers to stabilise your result.

Recovery experiences vary. Most patients experience swelling and require a soft diet for several weeks. Many return to school or desk-based work within 2 to 4 weeks, with full recovery occurring over several months.

How much is jaw surgery in Melbourne?

The cost of jaw surgery varies depending on the type of procedure, surgeon and hospital fees, and the orthodontic treatment involved. As a general guide:

• Surgeon fees may range from several thousand dollars up to $15,000 or more, depending on whether one jaw or both jaws are treated
• Hospital and anaesthetist fees are additional and vary by provider
• Orthodontic treatment before and after surgery is planned and quoted separately

Because costs vary widely, the most accurate way to understand your out-of-pocket expenses is through a coordinated quote after a specialist assessment.

At Angle House Orthodontics, we provide written orthodontic quotes, and your surgeon will supply a detailed surgical estimate. We are also happy to discuss finance options and treatment staging where appropriate.

Is orthognathic surgery covered by Medicare?

Medicare may contribute to eligible surgical items when jaw surgery is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in hospital. However, Medicare does not cover orthodontic treatment.

The rebate usually represents a portion of the surgeon fee and typically does not cover private hospital or anaesthetist gaps. Your surgeon will list the relevant Medicare item numbers on your quote so you can confirm expected benefits.

Private health insurance with hospital cover may help reduce costs associated with hospital stay, theatre fees, and anaesthesia. Orthodontic treatment is generally covered under extras, not hospital cover, and limits vary between policies.

We recommend contacting your health fund with the provided item numbers to confirm your level of cover and any waiting periods.

Is orthognathic surgery worth it?

Whether jaw surgery is worthwhile depends on the severity of the jaw discrepancy and your personal goals. For many patients, surgery offers benefits that orthodontics alone cannot achieve:

• Improved comfort when chewing and speaking
• Breathing and airway improvements when relevant
• Enhanced facial balance and profile
• Long-term bite stability, reducing the risk of tooth wear or jaw strain

We use digital planning tools and imaging to clearly explain expected outcomes. If a non-surgical approach is suitable, we will outline that option so you can make an informed decision.

What is the appropriate age for orthognathic surgery?

Jaw surgery is usually performed once growth is complete to ensure stable results. For most females this is around 16 to 17 years, and for most males around 17 to 19 years.

Early orthodontic assessment is still important. We often see children from around age 7 to monitor jaw growth and guide treatment timing. Adults of any age can be assessed, provided oral health is suitable.

Your next steps

If you are considering jaw surgery, the first step is a specialist orthodontic assessment. We will explain whether surgery is recommended, outline alternative options, and coordinate a referral to a trusted Melbourne surgeon if required.

Angle House Orthodontics offers flexible appointment times, including after-school sessions and Saturday appointments at our Doreen clinic. We also provide written quotes and can discuss payment options and timing around school or work.

If your bite concerns are primarily dental rather than skeletal, Invisalign® or braces may be effective alternatives.

Summary

Jaw surgery is recommended when jaw position, not just tooth alignment, prevents a functional and stable bite. While costs vary, they are shared across surgical, hospital, anaesthetic, and orthodontic phases.

Medicare may contribute to eligible surgical items, private hospital cover can reduce hospital-related costs, and orthodontic treatment is usually claimed under extras. The ideal time for surgery is after growth is complete, but early assessment helps guide planning and timing.

The team at Angle House Orthodontics is here to support you with clear information and a calm, considered approach so you can move forward with confidence.