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How much does orthognathic surgery cost, and what truly determines its price?

How much does orthognathic surgery cost, and what truly determines its price?

Last updated: 2026

This is probably the most common question among orthognathic surgery candidates who contact us through various channels. However, the cost of orthognathic surgery in Spain cannot be answered in general terms, as the cost of this type of surgery depends on many factors and always requires a prior patient evaluation.

In this guide, we explain not only indicative price ranges but also the clinical and technical factors that determine the actual cost of the treatment.

 

The cost of not treating a severe malocclusion

When analyzing the price of orthognathic surgery, it is also important to consider the cost of not treating the problem.

  • Severe malocclusion can cause:
  • Premature tooth wear
  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems
  • Chronic chewing difficulties
  • Respiratory problems, including sleep apnea
  • Psychological and social impact

Many patients who delay treatment end up needing complex dental rehabilitations, repeated splints, or compensatory orthodontic treatments that do not correct the root cause of the problem.

Orthognathic surgery is not an isolated procedure: in many cases, it is the definitive solution to a structural defect.

What is the approximate price of orthognathic surgery in Spain?

The cost of orthognathic surgery includes several aspects:

  • The cost estimate for orthognathic surgery includes several aspects:
  • Medical consultations
  • Virtual surgery planning
  • Preoperative and postoperative studies
  • Type of surgery (monomaxillary or bimaxillary)
  • Surgeon's fees, based on their experience
  • Hospitalization, which includes:
    - Anesthesiologist and anesthesia nurse
    - Anesthesia
    - Circulating fluid
    - Medication
    - Room
  • Fixation materials (number of plates and screws)
  • Surgical splints
  • Postoperative follow-up

Additional costs may be added to this, related to the complexity of the case or the performance of complementary or cosmetic procedures during the same procedure.

Price Range in Spain

In Spain, the average cost of orthognathic surgery usually starts at around €15,000 and can reach €35,000 in complex cases.

Single-jaw surgery is less expensive than double-jaw surgery, which is more complex and takes longer.

Orthodontics, Part of the Complete Treatment

Most patients undergoing orthognathic surgery also require orthodontic treatment before and after the operation, which is not included in the prices listed above.

Orthodontic treatment typically begins about 18 months before surgery.
After the operation, the orthodontist adjusts the teeth's position until the final alignment is achieved.
The complete treatment (orthodontics + surgery) can last between 15 months and three years.
Therefore, rather than discussing a fixed price, it's more appropriate to talk about a comprehensive treatment plan.

Factors Not Seen in the Estimate but That Make a Difference

Not all estimates include the same level of planning and technology. Factors influencing the cost include:

  • Three-dimensional digital planning
  • Pre-surgical facial simulation
  • Use of customized surgical guides
  • Experience of the surgical team
  • Surgery in an accredited hospital setting
  • Close coordination with specialized orthodontists

These elements are not always visible to the patient, but they directly influence surgical precision, long-term stability, and postoperative recovery. At the Maxillofacial Institute, all quotes are personalized and are provided after an initial examination visit. During this appointment, the patient receives:

  • A complete diagnosis
  • A clinical photographic study
  • A detailed quote for the treatment proposed by our team of specialists

All this with the guarantee of being in the hands of one of the most experienced teams in Spain and at an internationally renowned center for orthognathic surgery.

Prof. Hernandez Alfaro in the ORWhy can the price vary between different clinics?

Price differences are not always solely due to the type of surgery, but also to the structure of the center:

  • Annual volume of surgeries performed
  • Multidisciplinary team vs. individual practice
  • Hospital infrastructure
  • Level of specialization in orthognathic surgery
  • Post-operative follow-up protocols

Comparing quotes without analyzing these aspects can lead to incomplete interpretations.

Does the public healthcare system or private insurance cover orthognathic surgery?

Generally, this surgery is considered cosmetic and is not usually covered by insurance companies. There are exceptions, such as when the skeletal malformation causes sleep apnea or other respiratory or functional problems. In these situations, the public healthcare system may cover this type of surgery, although waiting times are often long.

In the private sector, coverage depends on each insurance policy and whether the case is considered functional or cosmetic. A complete clinical evaluation is essential to determine the actual medical indication for the procedure.

Many patients plan their treatment accordingly, as orthognathic surgery is part of a structured process that can extend over time. Since it is a comprehensive treatment—combining orthodontics and surgery—it is advisable to assess the overall cost and allocate it appropriately.

The decision is not usually based solely on price, but rather on the predictability and stability of the long-term result. At the Maxillofacial Institute, we offer financing options with specific conditions tailored to each patient.

Would you like to know what your case would be?

Orthognathic surgery should not be evaluated solely in economic terms, but rather as a structural intervention that can transform the patient's function, health, and facial harmony. Contact us to schedule an initial visit by calling +34 933 933 185 or writing to international@institutomaxilofacial.com

Frequently Asked Questions about the Price of Orthognathic Surgery

Does the price include orthodontics?
Although orthodontics is part of the comprehensive treatment plan, at Instituto Maxilofacial we do not offer orthodontic services. Therefore, pre- and post-surgical orthodontics are not included in our prices and will need to be done by an external orthodontist of your choice (or we can recommend one in your city), with whom we will work closely to treat your case.

Is orthognathic surgery only for cosmetic reasons?

No. While it can improve facial harmony, its main objective is to correct functional skeletal abnormalities. You can have surgery for functional or cosmetic reasons, but ultimately, this surgery has a dual benefit: functional and aesthetic.

How long does the complete treatment take?

The entire process, including orthodontics and surgery, typically lasts between 12 and 24 months, depending on the complexity. It includes approximately 18 months of orthodontic preparation, surgery, and 6 months of post-surgical orthodontics, on average. Of course, these timeframes can vary considerably depending on the individual case.

Why is bimaxillary surgery more expensive?

Because it involves operating on both jaws, requires more planning, and takes longer to perform.

 

Might interest you: What will my recovery be like after orthognathic surgery?

Related content:

Orthognathic Surgery: Is There a Minimum or Maximum Age?

What are the risks of orthognathic surgery?

What happens in the operating room once the anesthesia takes effect?

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