Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Barcelona
What is Maxillofacial Surgery?
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is the medical specialty dedicated to the treatment of diseases and disorders of the face, mouth, and neck. It encompasses the entire face, its internal structures, and, of course, the skin. The wide variety of structures in the face results in a broad range of conditions and treatments, and requires a thorough understanding of the complex cranial and facial anatomy. For all these reasons, the maxillofacial surgeon is the specialist best suited to treat any disease affecting the face and mouth.
Within the maxillofacial surgery we can distinguish mainly the following surgeries:
– Surgery Orthognathic Surgery (jaw surgery) for the correction of facial asymmetries, malocclusions and obstructive sleep apnea.
– Facial Aesthetic Surgery, from a rhinoplasty, a mentoplasty, a blepharoplasty, an otoplasty to a facelift.
– Oral surgery: from wisdom teeth extraction to frenectomy, including all salivary gland pathologies.
– Placement of dental implants and bone grafts necessary to make them viable.
– ReconstructivePlastic Surgery for the treatment of head and neck tumors, facial trauma, congenital diseases and scars.
– Surgery of the Temporomandibular Joint, the joint that joins the jaw to the skull.
At Birbe Clinic we have a great team, supervised by Dr. Joan Birbe, with more than 20 years of experience treating patients; always up to date with the latest news and selecting the innovations that really improve our treatments, such as virtual simulations of facial surgeries, intraoral scanners, personalization of facial prostheses, the use of microscopes, etc.
We specialize in designing faces and smiles.
Surgical Steps
Most of these problems are approached through the mouth, so that there are no visible facial scars. Hence the importance of a perfect mastery of oral surgery to perform excellent maxillofacial treatments. We also have a cranial and facial physiotherapy unit for a better post-surgical recovery and temporomandibular joint problems.
Types of Maxillofacial Surgery
Maxillofacial Surgery
From wisdom teeth extraction to frenectomy, including all salivary gland pathologies.
Oral Surgery
Specialty in charge of processes such as the placement of dental implants, tooth extraction, apicoectomies, frenectomies...
Orthognathic Surgery
Correction of facial asymmetries, malocclusions and obstructive sleep apnea.
Frequently Asked Questions: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
What is maxillofacial surgery?
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is the medical specialty that surgically treats conditions of the face, mouth, jaw, and neck. It encompasses everything from complex extractions to orthognathic surgery, TMJ treatment, trauma, tumors, and facial cosmetic surgery. At Clínica Birbe in Barcelona, we integrate this specialty with dentistry, implantology, and orthodontics to offer a comprehensive approach provided by a single team.
Why choose Clínica Birbe for maxillofacial surgery in Barcelona?
Dr. Joan Birbe is the only oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Spain who is certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS), in addition to holding a European certification. This adds an international training credential to the clinic’s multidisciplinary team, which is based in Barcelona and features modern facilities, digital planning, and strict safety protocols for each patient.
What is the difference between an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a dentist?
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is a physician with a surgical specialty who is trained to perform complex procedures on facial bones and soft tissues. Dentists focus on the diagnosis and treatment of the oral cavity. They work as a team: the dentist refers the patient to the oral and maxillofacial surgeon when the case requires major surgery, general anesthesia, or advanced bone reconstruction. At Clínica Birbe, both professionals collaborate on every treatment plan.
Is maxillofacial surgery covered by insurance?
Some maxillofacial surgery procedures may be partially or fully covered by health insurance, especially in cases involving functional or traumatic conditions. Purely cosmetic procedures are typically paid for by the patient. During your first visit, we’ll review your coverage, financing options, and a fixed quote tailored to your specific situation.
What are the risks of maxillofacial surgery, and how can they be minimized?
Like any surgical procedure, maxillofacial surgery carries risks that must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The most common side effects are swelling, bruising, temporary difficulty chewing or speaking, and temporary changes in sensation in the lips, chin, or tongue (which resolve within weeks or months in most patients). Less common risks include infection, bleeding, delayed bone healing, or adverse reactions to anesthesia.
At Clínica Birbe, we minimize these risks by following a strict protocol:
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Comprehensive preoperative diagnosis using CBCT, 3D facial scanning, and millimeter-precise virtual planning that reduces intraoperative variability.
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A multidisciplinary medical team led by Dr. Joan Birbe (ABOMS-certified)—anesthesiologists, oral surgeons, orthodontists, and craniofacial physical therapists.
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Our own accredited operating room equipped with state-of-the-art technology and rigorous sterilization protocols.
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Intraoperative reproduction of the virtual plan using custom CAD-CAM splints and guides, which increase precision and reduce operating room time.
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Structured postoperative follow-up with direct access to our team to detect any complications early on.
Before the procedure, we will explain in detail the specific risks in your case, the preventive measures we will take, and the warning signs to watch for after surgery. Transparency is an essential part of how we work.
The Process at Clínica Birbe, Step by Step
Every maxillofacial surgery case is unique, but all patients follow the same structured pathway designed to ensure diagnostic accuracy, surgical safety, and a predictable outcome. We always use 3D planning and follow the guidelines of Dr. Joan Birbe, the only oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Spain certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS).
Initial visit and personalized diagnosis. A comprehensive clinical examination of the mouth and face, a detailed medical history, and a standardized photographic record. The goal is to understand not only what you need to address, but also your expectations and the overall context of your health.
Advanced diagnostic workup. Depending on the case, we perform additional tests: computed tomography (CBCT), 3D facial scans, intraoral scans, digital models, or magnetic resonance imaging. This information enables extremely precise virtual planning of the procedure.
A written treatment plan and a fixed-price estimate. We provide you with a detailed plan outlining the available surgical options, the expected timeline, a transparent explanation of the risks, and a fixed-price estimate with financing options. No further surprises.
Prehospital preparation. Preoperative testing, evaluation by an anesthesiologist, and, if necessary, coordination with orthodontics, general dentistry, or other medical specialties. You will receive specific instructions regarding medication, diet, and daily routines in the weeks leading up to the procedure.
Surgical procedure. The procedure is performed in our own accredited operating room, under general anesthesia or sedation depending on the procedure, using 3D planning reproduced intraoperatively via custom CAD-CAM surgical guides or splints. The procedure is usually performed intraorally, avoiding visible facial scars.
Hospitalization and discharge. The length of the hospital stay depends on the type of procedure: ranging from same-day discharge for minor surgeries to 1–2 nights for major surgeries. You will receive clear guidelines on care, medication, and warning signs.
Coordinated postoperative follow-up. Scheduled check-ins during the first few days, weeks, and months, with direct access to our team to answer any questions. When appropriate, we coordinate rehabilitation with craniofacial physical therapy.
Recovery time
What to Expect After Maxillofacial Surgery
Oral and maxillofacial surgery encompasses a wide variety of procedures, so recovery times vary significantly depending on the type of procedure, its complexity, and the patient’s individual response. These are the estimated timeframes:
Minor surgeries (wisdom tooth extraction, frenectomy, apicoectomy, biopsies): Most patients resume their normal daily activities within 3–7 days. Inflammation and discomfort usually subside within the first week.
Oral and implant surgery (dental implants, bone grafts, maxillary sinus lift): functional recovery takes 1–2 weeks, with a soft diet and specific aftercare. Osseointegration of the implant takes between 3 and 6 months before final prosthetic restoration.
Orthognathic surgery and major surgeries (lower jaw, upper jaw, temporomandibular joint, facial asymmetries): patients typically resume daily activities within 2–4 weeks; swelling gradually subsides within 6–8 weeks, and complete bone healing is achieved within 3 to 6 months.
Complementary facial cosmetic surgery (mentoplasty, facial implants, bone lift): return to social activities in 7–14 days, with complete healing in 2 to 3 months.
Factors that speed up recovery: strictly following the postoperative protocol, maintaining a proper diet, avoiding tobacco, resting for the first 48–72 hours, and attending scheduled follow-up appointments. At Clínica Birbe, we have a cranial and facial physical therapy unit that supports patients undergoing major surgeries to reduce inflammation, improve mouth opening, and accelerate functional recovery. Each patient receives a personalized schedule tailored to their procedure and lifestyle.
Duration of treatment
How long does the entire process take, from the first visit to final discharge?
The total duration of treatment in maxillofacial surgery varies widely, as it depends on the type of procedure and the necessary pre- and post-operative phases. Here are the approximate timeframes for the entire process:
As part of that process, the procedure takes one day: most surgeries last between 45 minutes (minor surgery) and 4 hours (bimaxillary or complex reconstructive surgery). The difference between a short-term and a long-term treatment is not the surgery itself, but rather the preoperative phases (orthodontics, bone grafts, planning) and postoperative phases (bone consolidation, rehabilitation, follow-up) necessary to achieve a stable and permanent result.
Once you decide to work with us, we will provideyou with a detailed timeline outlining the milestones for your specific case, so that you have complete clarity on the timeline from the very beginning.
Why Choose Clínica Birbe for Maxillofacial Surgery?
Clínica Birbe is a center specializing in comprehensive maxillofacial surgery, where each case is handled by a multidisciplinary team using proprietary 3D planning technology, located right in the heart of Barcelona.
• A coordinated team of oral and maxillofacial surgeons, orthodontists, anesthesiologists, and dental hygienists involved in every phase of treatment.
• Virtual 3D planning using CBCT and intraoral scans to anticipate the outcome before entering the operating room.
• Our own accredited operating room and sedation protocols tailored to each type of maxillofacial surgery.
• Initial consultation with no obligation, including a personalized diagnosis and a written treatment plan.
• Close post-surgical follow-up and a direct channel for addressing questions throughout the entire process.
→ Schedule your first appointment at Clínica Birbe and have your case evaluated by an ABOMS-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Dr. Joan Birbe: ABOMS-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon
Dr. Joan Birbe is the only oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Spain certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS), the world’s leading credential in the specialty. This accreditation requires ongoing training and performance audits, which is why every maxillofacial procedure in Barcelona is planned in accordance with international standards for safety, technical precision, and clinical predictability.
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We help you to perform the intervention you need
After a rigorous evaluation, we offer you a personalized and closed budget with all the necessary forms of payment and financing, so that you can carry it out.
Testimonials
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Contact
with us
Contact us during our business hours:
- Monday, Thursday and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Tuesday and Wednesday from 8:00h to 19:00h.
- Phone: +34 93 212 47 37
Outside our working hours you can send us a WhatsApp or a form and we will get back to you the next business day. Being located in Barcelona, we receive patients from all over the national and international territory.
During your first consultation we will provide you with:
Personal diagnosis by oral and facial examination.
Closed budget with different financing financing possibilities.
