Maxillofacial Surgeon Salary in 2025

Maxillofacial surgeons, also known as oral and maxillofacial surgeons, are among the highest-paid professionals in the medical field. With a blend of dental, surgical, and medical expertise, these specialists diagnose and treat a range of facial and jaw conditions. In 2025, the salary landscape for maxillofacial surgeons continues to be strong, driven by high demand, specialization, and years of rigorous training. This article explores average salaries, factors influencing earnings, and what aspiring surgeons need to know about this career path.

Average Maxillofacial Surgeon Salary in 2025

As of 2025, the average annual salary for a maxillofacial surgeon in the United States falls within the range of $270,000 to $420,000. However, several factors can significantly shift this number.

Entry-level (0–3 years): $220,000 – $280,000
Mid-career (4–9 years): $300,000 – $400,000
Experienced (10+ years): $400,000 – $500,000+
Top earners & specialists: Over $600,000

These figures are influenced by geographical location, private vs. public practice, subspecialties, and more.

Key Factors Influencing Salary

1. Experience and Seniority

Experience is one of the most significant factors. Newly licensed surgeons may start on the lower end of the scale, while those with established practices or academic credentials can command top-tier salaries.

2. Location

Location has a massive impact on pay:

Urban centers with a high cost of living like New York City, San Francisco, and Los Angeles often offer higher salaries.
Rural or underserved areas may provide incentives or bonuses to attract specialists, occasionally resulting in higher net earnings.

3. Type of Practice

Private Practice: Typically offers higher salaries and potential for profit-sharing or business ownership.
Hospitals or Academic Settings: May provide lower base salaries but come with benefits like tenure, research opportunities, and better work-life balance.

4. Subspecialization

Maxillofacial surgeons who further specialize in areas like craniofacial surgery, cosmetic reconstruction, or oncology often see higher compensation due to the complexity of their work.

5. Certifications and Education

Board certification from the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS) enhances credibility and earning potential.
Dual degrees (MD + DDS/DMD) typically correlate with higher salaries and a broader scope of practice.

Benefits Beyond Base Salary

Most maxillofacial surgeons also receive an extensive benefits package, including:

Health, dental, and vision insurance
Malpractice coverage
Paid time off (PTO)
Continuing education stipends
Retirement contributions
Performance or signing bonuses

Some employers may offer student loan repayment assistance, particularly in underserved regions.

Salary Trends and Job Market Outlook

Job Outlook:

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth for oral and maxillofacial surgeons through 2030 and beyond. Aging populations, increased demand for cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries, and expanded dental coverage are driving forces.

2025 Trends:

Tech Integration: Use of AI, 3D imaging, and robotic-assisted surgery may increase job complexity and compensation.
Telehealth Consultation: Some pre- and post-operative care is being shifted online, creating flexibility and new revenue streams.
Greater Demand in Cosmetic Surgery: More patients are seeking elective procedures, boosting demand for surgeons with cosmetic experience.

Education and Certification Requirements

To become a maxillofacial surgeon, candidates must complete:

A DDS or DMD degree (4 years)
A surgical residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery (4–6 years)
Optional: MD degree for those pursuing dual-degree programs
Board certification (optional but highly recommended for competitive salaries)

Continuing education and maintaining certifications are vital for staying current and enhancing salary potential.

Conclusion

The field of oral and maxillofacial surgery remains one of the most lucrative and respected medical careers in 2025. With salaries ranging from $270,000 to over $500,000 depending on experience, location, and specialization, it’s a financially rewarding path for those ready to commit to the education and training it demands. As technology and patient demand evolve, so too does the earning potential—making it a future-proof medical specialty worth considering.