Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery deals with a variety of conditions associated with the mouth, jaws, face and neck. The combined medical, dental and surgical training reflects the broad nature of the work undertaken by the specialty. This encompasses the management of developmental facial anomolies including cleft lip and palate, facial trauma and both the ablative and reconstructive surgery required in the management of orofacial malignancy
Specialty attractions
The scope of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery has widened over the last 15 years and continues to develop. An extensive array of procedures are performed, ranging from the relatively minor dento-alveolar surgery through to complex major head and neck surgery. The specialty is unique in primarily practicing surgery involving both hard and soft tissue with anatomical specialisation in the face, mouth and jaws. There is a strong emphasis on reconstruction, including microvascular techniques. Operating in this emotionally and cosmetically sensitive area provides considerable clinical changes.