Jaw Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico: Best Clinics, 85% Savings, and More!

Jaw surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, is your ticket to stunning smiles! With up to 80% cost savings, say goodbye to awkward smiles! Our partner clinics offer computer-based treatments for quick and precise results! Scroll down to explore the best clinics, qualified dentists, & advantages. 

Jaw Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico: Cost

The average cost of jaw surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, is $10,000. The cost of orthognathic surgery typically ranges from $7,000 to $12,000 in Tijuana. Comparing this to $40,000 in the US, you enjoy up to 85% savings in Tijuana while achieving your dream smile!

Cost of Jaw Surgery  in Tijuana, Mexico vs the US 
Procedure Tijuana, Mexico ($) US ($)Savings (%)
        Single Jaw  $7,000$40,00085%
Double Jaw (Bimax Surgery)$10,000$53,00080%
Triple Jaw $12,000$56,00078%
**Prices are subject to change

What Is the Cost of Double Jaw Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico? 

Double jaw surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, can cost up to $10,000, compared to around $53,000 in the US. This means you can save up to 80% by choosing Tijuana for your surgery.  

Payment Options for Jaw Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico 

We offer multiple payment options to ensure a hassle-free and convenient dental treatment experience. 

Choose from the following payment options for jaw surgery in Tijuana, Mexico: 

  • Cash (based on your case manager’s instructions) 
  • Cashier’s Check
  • Credit Cards 
  • Online Transfers 
  • PayPal 
  • Dental Loans

Get affordable jaw surgery in Tjuana!


Why Choose TJ Dental Center?

  • Cost savings on orthognathic surgery of up to 85% compared to the US. 
  • Multilingual dental staff, proficient in English, Spanish, and French.
  • Affordable dental packages include travel, treatment, stay, and tourism for a seamless dental trip experience. 
  • Pick-up and drop-off facilities for easy and hassle-free travel. 
  • Accommodation and travel guidance.  
  • Tourism assistance to enjoy popular places in Tijuana.

Jaw Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico: Reviews

Many of our patients have achieved an improved facial appearance with jaw surgery in Tijuana, Mexico. Dive into these patient testimonials to explore their journey.

Ultimate Guide to Orthognathic Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico

Looking to learn more about the types, procedure, eligibility, or risks related to orthognathic surgery? 

This section explores all you need to know about jaw surgery in Tijuana, Mexico. 

What Is Corrective Jaw Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico? 

Jaw surgery, also called orthognathic surgery, is performed to realign or reposition the jaw. Orthognathic surgery may be necessary to fix bite issues caused due to irregular/inadequate jaw growth or repair a severe jaw injury.[1] The surgery is recommended if the issue cannot be addressed by orthodontics (braces, aligners, retainers). 

How Many Types of Jaw Surgery Are There? 

Corrective jaw surgery is classified into three types based on the abnormalities related to the upper, lower, or both jaws. 

Thus, orthognathic surgery can be performed on your: 

  • Upper Jaw (Maxilla)
  • Lower Jaw (Mandible)
  • Both Upper and Lower Jaw (Bimaxillary) 

The three types of corrective jaw surgery include: 

  • Maxillary Osteotomy
  • Mandibular Osteotomy 
  • Bimaxillary Osteotomy 

Let’s explore each type of orthognathic surgery in detail: 

Maxillary osteotomy is a type of orthognathic surgery performed on your upper jaw (maxilla). 

The following conditions associated with the upper jaw may require maxillary osteotomy: 

  • An upper jaw that sticks out too much (protrudes) or recedes. 
  • An open bite- when either the front or back teeth don’t touch once the mouth is closed.
  • A cross bite- when some bottom teeth remain outside of the upper teeth once the mouth is closed. 
  • Where growth in the middle portion of your face is decreased. (Midfacial hypoplasia). 

Source: NCBI[2]

Mandibular osteotomy is a type of orthognathic surgery performed on your lower jaw (mandible). 

It is usually performed if your lower jaw sticks out too much or stays further back than the upper jaw. 

Source: Cleveland Clinic[3]

Bimaxillary osteotomy is required when both upper and lower jaws are affected by any abnormality. This type of orthognathic surgery is called double jaw surgery, as it involves surgical treatment of both jaws. 

Double jaw surgery can help: 

  • Correct jaw misalignment, allowing you to talk and eat properly.
  • Correct jaw size if either of the jaw is underdeveloped or overgrown. 
  • Solve facial asymmetry due to small chin, jaw misalignment, or gummy smile. 
  • Improve basic jaw functions like biting, chewing, swallowing, and speaking. 

Source: Healthline[4]

Genioplasty, also called chin surgery, involves repositioning and reshaping the chin. The surgery is also utilized for chin augmentation to make it more prominent. 

In case of a receded lower jaw, genioplasty may be performed along with mandibular osteotomy. If genioplasty is performed with bimaxillary osteotomy, it is often termed triple jaw surgery. 

It is usually recommended to fix the following problems: 

  • Receding chins (retorgenia) 
  • Misaligned or asymmetric chins
  • Extended or overly large chins 
  • Abnormal bite 

Source: Medical News Today[5] 


Maxillary Osteotomy
Maxillary Osteotomy

Mandibular Osteotomy
Mandibular Osteotomy

Will Jaw Surgery Improve My Speech? 

Orthognathic surgery can highly improve your speech[6], especially if it is performed to fix jaw misalignment. This is because certain sounds like “s,” “z,” “ch,” etc, require the ideal positioning of the jaw and teeth to be pronounced properly. 

Benefits of Jaw Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico

Orthognathic surgery in Tijuana offers several benefits to patients as follows: 

  • Improves biting and chewing ability. 
  • Solves speech issues due to jaw misalignment. 
  • Helps resolve facial asymmetry, including issues like small chins, overbites, underbites, and cross-bites. 
  • Corrects jaw closure or bite fit issues such as open bite.
  • Restores facial injury or birth abnormality related to the jaw. 
  • Helps relieve obstructive sleep apnea, snoring, etc. 
  • Relieves pain due to Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder and related jaw issues. 

Source: Mayo Clinic[7]

Benefits of Orthognathic Surgery
Benefits of Orthognathic Surgery

What Are the Conditions That Indicate the Need for Jaw Surgery? 

Patients who are suffering from the following conditions may require corrective jaw surgery: 

  • Severe jaw misalignment 
  • Facial disproportion or gummy smile 
  • Difficulty in chewing or speaking
  • Chronic mouth breathing 
  • Temporomadibular joint (TMI)
  • Obstructive sleep apnea and snoring
  • Jaw issues that can’t be resolved by orthodontics

Source: MDPI[8]

What Are the Steps Involved in Jaw Surgery Procedure?

Jaw surgery may be performed on the upper (maxilla) or lower (mandible) jaw. Hence, the surgical procedure may vary slightly based on the maxillary or mandibular osteotomy.  

The general procedure for orthognathic surgery is performed in 4 major steps, as discussed below: 

Video Consultation 

  • As the first step, our dental expert will conduct a pre-procedure video consultation.
  • During the consultation, you can share your expectations, oral issues, and treatment goals. 
  • You can also share your past medical records and information related to any ongoing treatment.  
  • Based on the provided information, our medical expert will suggest a treatment plan.
  • You can plan your dental trip to Tijuana based on the recommended treatment plan. 

Dental Examination

  • The first visit involves a comprehensive dental examination to assess your dental issues and oral health. 
  • The dental examination for orthognathic surgery generally involves taking profile view X-rays – lateral cephalogram, CT scans, photographs, and impressions of your teeth. 

Pre-Surgical Orthodontics 

  • In most cases, your orthodontist may place braces on your teeth before surgery. 
  • Braces are used to level and align your teeth and may be placed for about 15-24 months.[9]  
  • 3D CT scans, lat. ceph. X-ray and computer-based treatment planning may be used to reduce your time in braces.

Note: Use of temporary orthodontic devices and relevant treatment may eliminate the need for orthognathic surgery in some cases.[10]

Surgical Treatment 

  • The orthognathic surgery is performed under general anesthesia. This will make you fall asleep during the surgery. 
  • Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon will make incisions into your gums to get access to the bones of the upper or lower jaw.  
  • Next, the surgeon will cut into your jawbone, allowing it to be carefully moved into a new position. 
  • Once the jaw movement is completed, tiny plates or screws are placed to hold the adjusted jawbone in its new position. 
  • Finally, the incisions in your gums are closed through stitches. 

Post-Surgical Care 

  • After the surgery, the dentist may provide diet instructions, oral hygiene tips, and medications to control pain.
  • It is usually recommended to avoid smoking and engaging in strenuous activity after surgery. 
  • You can also share any concerns, doubts, or questions related to the aftercare.
  • The dentist may also provide you with a tentative timeline to return to your work after healing. 

Note: Note that orthognathic surgery may be performed on the upper jaw, lower jaw, chin, or any combination of these.

Source: Healthline[11], Mayo Clinic[12]

Summary of Treatment Process for Jaw Surgery
Summary of Treatment Process for Jaw Surgery

What Is Surgery-First Orthognathic Approach (SFOA)?

In the surgery-first orthognathic approach (SFOA), the orthognathic surgery is performed without presurgical orthodontic treatment. In conventional orthognathic surgery, presurgical orthodontic treatment was considered essential to overcome postoperative occlusal instability. However, the conventional approach led to a prolonged timeline, including 12-18 months[13] of presurgical orthodontic treatment. 

The surgery-first orthognathic approach offers several advantages over the conventional orthognathic surgery: 

  • Eliminates the need for presurgical orthodontics treatment. 
  • Ensures a shortened overall treatment time. 
  • Patient-oriented approach- offers early improvement of facial esthetics. 
  • Provides early correction of sleep disorders. 
  • Has minimal impact on the patient’s social life. 
  • Offers enough postoperative time to manage skeletal and facial changes. 

Source: NCBI[14]

Jaw Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico: Aftercare

After getting your orthognathic surgery in Tijuana, postoperative care is essential for a speedy and safe recovery. 

Follow these post-operative instructions to get back to your normal routine quickly: 

  • Use ice packs for the first 24-48 hours to help control swelling. 
  • Keep your head elevated, or use an extra pillow to minimize swelling. 
  • Use a vaporizer to help ease congestion that you may experience 3-5 days after surgery. 
  • Your dentist may recommend some painkillers to help manage the pain. 
  • Rinse your mouth with saline water after every 4 hours. 
  • Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush. 

Jaw Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico: Risks

While orthognathic surgery is generally considered safe, there may be certain risks associated with it. 

Some common complications related to orthognathic surgery include: 

Bleeding may occur if the facial or maxillary vessels become damaged. This can be controlled by applying pressure through bone wax or resorbable materials. 

Postoperative infections like cellulitis, maxillary sinusitis, and osteomyelitis may occur. These infections can be fully treated through early diagnosis and management. 

Complications associated with the respiratory system, like airway obstruction and pneumonia, can occur after orthognathic surgery. This may be due to stimulation by the tube used in anesthesia or a reduced nasal cavity.

The screws used during the surgical procedure may damage the dental roots during implantation. This can cause tooth injury, including issues like discoloration and pulp diseases.

OSA may occur as the airway becomes narrower and the hyoid bone position changes after orthognathic surgery. Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon may recommend treatments for snoring issues or OSA after surgery.

Source: NCBI[15] 

Best Clinics For Jaw Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico

Our partner clinics are equipped with modern dental equipment and state-of-the-art facilities to ensure high-quality orthognathic surgical treatments. 

Dive into the list of the best clinics for jaw surgery in Tijuana, Mexico: 

Dr. Implant Dentist
 4.9  ( 103 reviews )
Torre Quatro, Frida Kahlo 10410-Suite 410, Zona Urbana Rio Tijuana, 22010 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico
  • 3500+ Happy patients
  • Just 3 mins from the border
  • Flexible appointments
  • Same-Day dental solutions
  • Languages - English & Spanish
Dental Brush
 3.9  ( 58 reviews )
Av de la Amistad 1305, Col. Federal, 22010 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico
  • 11223+ Happy patients
  • BBB Accredited
  • Flexible appointments
  • Offers single-trip implants
  • Languages - English & Spanish
Dental 3 Smiles
 5  ( 19 reviews )
José María Velazco 2613, Zona Urbana Rio Tijuana, 22010 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico
  • 120+ Happy patients
  • Pickup from the border/hotel
  • Flexible appointments
  • Assistance dogs welcome
  • Languages - English & Spanish
Quality International
 5  ( 8 reviews )
Av. Negrete 721, colonia centro, 22000 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico
  • 99% success rate
  • Pickup from the border/hotel
  • Flexible appointments
  • ISO Certified
  • Languages - English & Spanish

Here are the key highlights of the best dental clinics in Tijuana, Mexico: 

  • High-tech dental technology available in-house, like 3D CBCT scans, X-rays, & CAD CAM.
  • Follow the protocols recommended by the Occupational Safety and Health. Administration (OSHA), the Centers for Disease Control, and the Environment Protection Agency.
  • Offer accommodation, travel, and tourism assistance. 
  • ISO-certified clinics adhere to strict sterilization protocols.  
  • Highly experienced dentists with expertise in orthognathic surgery. 
  • Multilingual medical staff and dentists, proficient in English, Spanish, and French. 

Best Dentists For Jaw Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico

Orthognathic surgery involves a complicated surgical procedure performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.[16] Additionally, an orthodontist recommends a treatment plan and pre-surgical orthodontic treatment. 

Thus, the dental experts must have prior experience and relevant skills to perform the orthognathic surgery. 

Explore some of the best dentists for jaw surgery in Tijuana, Mexico:

Dr. Emmanuel J. Leon
Periodontics
DDS, 13 + years
Expertise
Implants, All on 4/6/8, Oral Surgery
Languages
  • English / Spanish
Member/Certifications
  • American Dental Association
  • Mexican Board-Certified
  • Mexican Dental Association
  • University Michoacána de San Nicholas
Dr. Arely Alvarez
Oral Surgeon
DDS, 7 + years
Expertise
Dental Implants
Languages
  • English, Spanish
Member/Certificates
  • Autonomous University of Nayarit
  • Pre-Implant Regenerative Periodontal Surgery
  • Master's in Implants by Hiossen Osstem Implant
 
Dr. Luis Angel Vega
Orthodontist
MDS (Intercontinental University of Mexico City), 19 + years
Expertise
Aligners & Braces
Languages
  • English, Spanish
Member/Certifications
  • Invisalign Certified Orthodontic Specialist in TJ
  • Assisted continued education courses with World Federation of Orthodontics

Check out the qualifications and certifications of the best dentists in Tijuana, Mexico: 

  • Jaw surgeons and oral surgeons certified by the Mexican Board & Mexico Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery.
  • Member of renowned organizations like the Mexican Dental Association, American Dental Association, etc.
  • Over a decade of experience in performing maxillary and mandibular osteotomy. 
  • Certified invisalign orthodontics specialist. 
  • Certification from National Regulatory Committee CONACEM. 

Is It Safe To Get Jaw Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico?

Patient safety throughout the jaw surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, is ensured by certified dentists, modern clinics, and the use of the latest dental technology. 

Explore the safety information related to treatment, clinics, and travel in Tijuana, Mexico. 

Orthognathic surgery is considered a very safe treatment with high patient satisfaction. The success rate typically depends on the dental examination, evaluation of the patient’s expectations and comprehensive treatment planning.[17] Moreover, the surgery must be performed by a well-trained and highly experienced surgeon.

Dental clinics in Tijuana, Mexico, maintain high safety standards for their patients in the following ways: 

  • Adhere to strict sterilization protocols covering premises, equipment, and dental instruments. 
  • Use of state-of-the-art technology, such as X-rays, 3D CBCT scans, and CAD/CAM. 
  • Multilingual medical staff and dentists, speaking English, Spanish, and French to ensure effective communication. 
  • Follow international standards of procedures recommended by ISO. 
  • Reliable pick-up and drop-off facilities for international patients. 

Tijuana, Mexico, is a well-known and highly sought-after destination for dental tourism due to its affordable prices and high-quality treatments. 

While the city is rated safe for tourists, you must follow some basic travel safety guidelines as discussed: 

  • Avoid traveling to unknown or unexplored areas, especially during the night. 
  • Book only popular and reliable guest houses or hotels in the city. You can also seek accommodation assistance from your dental clinic. 
  • Trust your instincts and exercise caution while traveling in crowded areas. 
  • Be aware of emergency numbers like 911 for the police and 066 for calling an ambulance. 
  • Learn and get used to some basic Spanish phrases to help communicate with the locals. 

How to Visit Tijuana, Mexico?

Thanks to the minimal travel requirements, crossing the border for jaw surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, is very simple and hassle-free for US residents.

You won’t require a visa to travel to Tijuana if your dental trip is less than 180 days.[18]  

Required Documents 

Other travel documents required to travel to Tijuana include:

  • A valid passport is required if you travel by road or air. 
  • Forma Migratoria Multiple Digital (FMMD) by air or Forma Migratoria Multiple (FMM) if traveling via land. 
  • A temporary vehicle import permit is also required for a US-registered vehicle brought beyond the border zone. 

Source: Travel.State.Gov[19]

Travel Guide 

Located across the US-Mexican border, Tijuana offers several travel options for patients. You can board a flight from San Deigo Airport and then drive to Tijuana by car. 

Here’s a list of the flights available from different cities in the US to San Diego Airport. 

CityTravel time
Pheonix 1 hr 25 mins
Las Vegas 5 hr 9 mins
San Diego5 hr 22 mins
Los Angeles5 hr 42 mins

San Diego, California, is just 19.8 miles from Tijuana, allowing hassle-free travel options to the city for jaw surgery. It takes about 30 minutes to drive from San Diego to Tijuana by road. 

Check out the approximate drive time from different cities to Tijuana, Mexico: 

FromDistance (Miles)Average Drive Time 
San Diego20.1 mil30 mins
Los Angeles137.4 mil2 hr 10 mins
Las Vegas348.1 mil5 hr 15 mins
Phoenix365.6 mil5 hr 42 mins

Tourist Attractions 

Tijuana offers unique tourist attractions for international travelers. You can spend a soothing evening on a beach or explore the historical Mexican culture. 

Check out some top places that you must visit during your dental trip in Tijuana, Mexico: 

  • Tijuana Cultural Center: Located in the modern urban area of the city, the Tijuana Cultural Center has become the most recognized symbol of Tijuana.  Explore the Museum of the Californias, experience live performances, and enjoy IMAX movies.
  • Playas de Tijuana: The western borough of Tijuana ranges from Azteca Park to the US border. Enjoy beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere close to the sea.
  • El Trompo: An innovative and modern science museum that features cultural shows, various exhibitions, and engaging games.
  • Avenida Revolucion: Well-known as the vibrant heart of the city, Avenida Revolucion is filled with cozy cafes, restaurants, hotels, street art, and lively street performances. 
  • El Popo Market: A vibrant market offering a diverse range of products. Explore fresh cheeses, spices, soaps, candles, and local cuisine.

Source:  PlanetWare[20]

Conclusion 

Jaw surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, helps treat severe jaw misalignment and facial deformities for an improved facial appearance and proper bite. Avail up to 80% discount on the treatment backed by certified dentists, modern dental clinics, and high safety standards.

FAQs

The recovery time for jaw surgery ranges from 4-12 weeks. The initial jaw healing usually takes about 6 weeks, while the complete healing of jawbones may require up to 12 weeks.[21] The recovery time may vary depending on the case complexity, ideal oral hygiene, and proper aftercare. Some basic aftercare tips include avoiding smoking and alcohol, eating soft foods, and taking proper rest.

As the orthognathic surgery is performed under general anesthesia, you may not feel any pain during the surgery. However, as the effect of anesthesia wears off, you may experience pain and discomfort in the first few days after surgery. The surgeon usually recommends the required medications and painkillers to help ease the pain after surgery. 

Getting orthognathic surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, is absolutely worth it. The low treatment costs compared to the US, qualified dentists, modern clinics, and the latest dental technology make the city a perfect destination for jaw surgery. Additionally, easy travel options, minimal travel requirements, and tourist attractions make it a popular dental tourism destination. 

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