Corrective jaw surgery in Richmond can cost around $20,000 to $40,000 or more without insurance. The actual cost can be much lower or higher depending on the type of surgery, surgeon, hospital, anesthesia, orthodontic treatment, and insurance coverage. There is no single price for corrective jaw surgery because every patient needs a different treatment plan.
Corrective jaw surgery helps with jaw and bite problems. It can correct severe underbite, overbite, open bite, or other jaw problems. Some patients need single jaw surgery. Others may need double jaw surgery.
Your total cost may include several services. These can include the surgeon’s fee, hospital fees, anesthesia, scans, medicines, and orthodontic treatment. Insurance may cover part of the cost if the surgery is medically necessary. Coverage depends on your insurance plan.
In this guide, we will explain the corrective jaw surgery cost in Richmond in 2026. We will also cover insurance, surgery types, cost factors, and recovery time.
What Is Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Corrective jaw surgery is a procedure that fixes problems with the position or shape of the jaw. It is also called orthognathic surgery. The surgery can move the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. It helps improve the way your teeth and jaws fit together. A dentist or orthodontist may recommend this surgery when braces alone cannot fix the problem. It can help with issues such as:
- Severe underbite
- Severe overbite
- Open bite
- Uneven jaw position
- Difficulty chewing
- Problems with speaking
- Some breathing problems caused by jaw position
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) performs the surgery. The main goal is to improve jaw function and bite. In some cases, it can also improve facial balance.
Types of Corrective Jaw Surgery
There are different types of corrective jaw surgeries based on which jaw needs to be moved. The right option depends on your jaw position and bite problem. The most common types include:
| Type | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Le Fort I osteotomy | Repositions the upper jaw (maxilla). It can correct an overbite, open bite, or recessed upper jaw. |
| Bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO) | Repositions the lower jaw (mandible) forward or backward. It is commonly used to treat an underbite or receding lower jaw. |
| Bimaxillary (bimax) surgery | Repositions both jaws in one operation. It is used for more severe or complex misalignments. |
| Genioplasty | Repositions the chin bone. It is often added to another jaw procedure to improve facial balance. It does not correct the bite on its own. |
| Distraction osteogenesis | Gradually lengthens the jawbone using a device over several weeks. It may be used for younger patients or more severe jaw discrepancies. |
Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon will decide which procedure is right for you. The choice depends on your bite, jaw position, and treatment goals.

Corrective Jaw Surgery Costs Breakdown
The corrective jaw surgery cost includes more than the surgeon’s fee. You may have several costs before, during, and after surgery. The final price depends on your surgery type and treatment plan. For example: you may also have extra costs for orthodontic treatment, scans, anesthesia, hospital care, and follow-up visits.
Here is a simple breakdown of the costs you may see:
| Cost | What It Covers | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Initial consultation | Exam and treatment discussion with your surgeon | $100–$500+ |
| X-rays and scans | Images of your teeth, jaws, and facial bones | $200–$1,000+ |
| Orthodontic treatment | Braces before and/or after surgery | $3,000–$8,000+ |
| Surgeon’s fee | The oral and maxillofacial surgeon’s fee | $8,000–$20,000+ |
| Hospital or facility fee | Operating room and surgical facility costs | $5,000–$15,000+ |
| Anesthesia | Anesthesia services during surgery | $1,000–$4,000+ |
| Medications | Pain medicine and other medicines after surgery | $50–$300+ |
| Follow-up visits | Post-surgery checks with your surgeon | $100–$500+ |
| Genioplasty | Additional chin surgery, if needed | $3,000–$8,000+ |
| Additional procedures | Extra treatment needed for complex cases | Varies |
| Total treatment cost | Surgery, orthodontics, and related care | About $20,000–$40,000+ |
These are general estimates; your actual cost may be different. Some costs may also be covered by insurance if the surgery is medically necessary. Before treatment, ask your surgeon for a written cost estimate. Also ask which services are included in the quoted price.
What Affects the Cost of Jaw Surgery?
The cost of jaw surgery can be different for each patient. There is no single price for everyone. Several factors can affect the final cost.
1. Type of Jaw Surgery
The type of surgery is one of the biggest cost factors. Single jaw surgery usually costs less than double jaw surgery. Double jaw surgery involves both the upper and lower jaws. It also takes more time in many cases.
2. Complexity of the Case
Simple cases may cost less. Complex cases may require more surgical time and planning. Some patients may also need additional procedures.
3. Surgeon’s Experience
The surgeon’s experience can affect the fee. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) with advanced training may charge more. However, experience is important for complex jaw surgery.
4. Hospital or Surgical Facility
You may need to pay a facility fee. This covers the use of the operating room and other hospital services. The fee can vary between facilities.
5. Anesthesia
Jaw surgery is performed under general anesthesia. An anesthesia fee is usually separate from the surgeon’s fee. The cost may depend on how long the surgery takes.
6. Orthodontic Treatment
Many patients need braces before or after jaw surgery. This can add several thousand dollars to the total cost. Orthodontic treatment is an important part of the process. It helps prepare the teeth for surgery and improve the final bite.
7. Diagnostic Tests and Scans
Your surgeon may need X-rays, CT scans, photographs, or dental models. These tests help with surgical planning. Each test can add to your total treatment cost.
8. Genioplasty or Other Procedures
Some patients also need genioplasty. This procedure changes the position or shape of the chin. It can increase the total cost when added to jaw surgery.
9. Location
The cost can also vary by location. Prices in Richmond may differ from prices in other cities. Hospital fees, surgeon fees, and local costs can all affect the final price.
10. Insurance Coverage
Insurance can have a major effect on what you pay. If your surgery is considered medically necessary, your plan may cover part of the cost. You may still have a deductible or coinsurance. Some plans may also require prior approval. Before surgery, ask your surgeon and insurance company for a detailed cost estimate. This will help you understand what you may need to pay yourself.

Does Insurance Cover Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Insurance may cover jaw surgery when it’s medically necessary. But coverage isn’t automatic, and it depends on your specific plan. Jaw surgery falls under medical insurance, not dental insurance, when it treats a functional problem. Insurers generally require documented evidence that your jaw misalignment causes:
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Speech problems
- Breathing issues, including obstructive sleep apnea
- Chronic pain
- Injury from trauma, tumors, or a congenital condition
On average, around 70% of patients have some insurance coverage for jaw surgery, and that coverage averages roughly 35% of the surgical fee. Your surgeon’s office usually handles the paperwork and insurance approval. Still, ask for a written breakdown of your coverage before scheduling surgery.
How to Pay for Corrective Jaw Surgery
Corrective jaw surgery can be expensive. However, you may have several ways to manage the cost.
- Health insurance: Your insurance may cover part of the cost if the surgery is medically necessary. Check your plan before treatment.
- FSA: You may be able to use money from a Flexible Spending Account for eligible medical expenses.
- HSA: If you have a Health Savings Account, you may be able to use it for qualified medical costs.
- Payment plans: Some surgeons’ offices offer payment plans. You can pay the cost in smaller monthly payments.
- Medical financing: Some financing companies offer loans for medical treatment. Check the interest rate and fees before choosing this option.
Do not focus only on the surgery fee. Ask about the full treatment cost. This can include braces, scans, anesthesia, hospital fees, medicines, and follow-up care.
Corrective Jaw Surgery Recovery Time
Most people need about 6 weeks for the main recovery after corrective jaw surgery. However, full healing can take several months. Recovery time depends on the type of surgery and your overall healing.
Corrective Jaw Surgery Recovery Timeline
- First few days: Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common. You may need to rest at home.
- First 1–2 weeks: Swelling should slowly improve. You will likely need soft or liquid foods. Many people take time off work or school during this period.
- Weeks 3–4: You may start feeling more comfortable. Some daily activities can usually be resumed. Your diet may also slowly improve.
- Weeks 5–6: Many patients can return to most normal activities. However, the jaw is still healing.
- After 6 weeks: Recovery continues. Your surgeon may allow you to return to more activities based on your healing.
- Several months: The jaw bones continue to heal and become stronger. Your final results may take time to fully develop.
Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon will monitor your healing and tell you when it is safe to return to normal activities.

Is Corrective Jaw Surgery Worth the Cost?
Corrective jaw surgery can be worth the cost if you have a serious jaw or bite problem. It may improve chewing, speaking, jaw function, and facial balance.
It may be worth considering if you have:
- A severe underbite or overbite
- Difficulty chewing
- Problems with speaking
- Poor jaw alignment
- A bite problem that braces cannot fix
The cost can be easier to manage if your health insurance covers part of the treatment. Coverage may be available when the surgery is medically necessary.
Talk to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) to understand your treatment options, expected results, and total cost.
Conclusion
Corrective jaw surgery in Richmond may cost around $20,000 to $40,000 or more before insurance. The final cost depends on your surgery type, treatment needs, and other medical expenses. Single jaw surgery may cost less than double jaw surgery. Extra treatment, such as orthodontics or genioplasty, can also increase the total cost. Insurance may cover part of the cost when the surgery is medically necessary. It is best to check your insurance plan before treatment.
If you are considering corrective jaw surgery, book a consultation with Glow Up Dentistry today. Our team can help you understand your treatment options, expected costs, and next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Single-jaw surgery usually costs $20,000–$45,000. Double-jaw surgery usually costs $35,000–$80,000 or more without insurance.
Sometimes. Coverage depends on medical need. Problems like trouble chewing, breathing issues, or chronic TMJ pain may qualify. Some plans do not cover jaw surgery at all. Check with your insurance provider first.
Double-jaw surgery usually costs $35,000–$80,000 or more. It involves moving both the upper and lower jaw.
Most people return to daily activities within 1–3 weeks. Full recovery takes longer. The jawbone may take 9 to 12 months to fully heal.
Corrective jaw surgery is usually done for medical reasons. It can fix bite and airway problems. Cosmetic jaw surgery is different. It focuses only on appearance and is usually not covered by insurance.
Look for a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS). Choose someone with experience in corrective jaw surgery. Get detailed cost estimates from more than one surgeon before you decide.



