Consent for orthognathic surgery: a UK perspective

Obtaining consent to undertake orthognathic surgery is a legal requirement that starts at the initial visit when treatment is being considered and continues until the operation itself. The process includes discussion of the benefits, risks, and potential complications of the proposed procedure, and any alternative (including doing nothing), but there is no consensus about how much information should be disclosed. Guidance is provided on the basis of case law, which is itself evolving. The purpose of this study was to look at the current practice of obtaining consent for orthognathic surgery by oral and maxillofacial surgeons in the UK to act as a benchmark and potentially to stimulate further debate. We also review common and serious complications that might be included in the process.