Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Maxillofacial Surgery encompasses the surgery of the face, mouth, jaws and neck. It is usual for the speciality also to provide for the management or oral medical problems.  The two major sub-specialities of the speciality are Head & Neck Oncology, which also includes Microvascular Surgery and the management of facial deformity which includes Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery as well as Craniofacial Surgery. 

The majority of district general hospitals provide for routing oral surgery, oral medicine, orthognathic surgery and the management of salivary gland disease and maxillofacial trauma. Cleft Lip and Palate, Head & Neck Oncology are now in designated regional centres with a Hub and Spoke network. 

Training Programme

In the East of England there are two rotations and a total of six Specialist Registrar Posts. There are opportunities for research and sub-speciality training. A period of work abroad is encouraged and applications for LTFT welcomed and supported. There is the prospect of an increased number in specialists’ registrar posts and consultants in the future within the region. Present training rotations include 4 units (Cambridge, Luton & Dunstable, Norfolk & Norwich and Northampton) and we aim to provide personalised, trainee-specific rotations where possible. 

Essential Qualifications for Entry

Entry is via central recruitment through the Severn Deanery at Bristol. Training in the SPR grade takes five years (ST3/8) towards the end of training it is possible to undertake and interface fellowship in Head & Neck Oncology and reconstruction, Cleft Lip & Palate/Craniofacial Surgery and Cosmetic Facial Surgery. Full registration with the GMC and be eligible for full registration with the GDC is a mandatory requirement.