Laois patients facing up to two year wait for jaw surgery

Laois patients are facing waits of up to two years for orthognathic surgery, a local TD has claimed. Fianna Fáil TD for Laois, Sean Fleming, has received confirmation from the HSE that patients waiting for orthognathic treatment in Dublin and the Midlands HSE region—are facing waits of up to two years for surgery.

According to the latest figures provided to Deputy Fleming in response to Parliamentary Question, there are 26 patients currently in active treatment awaiting elective orthognathic surgery. These procedures, which involve the correction of misaligned jaws and teeth, require careful planning between Consultant Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and Consultant Orthodontists.

“This is a significant wait for patients and families who are already undergoing lengthy treatment plans. Orthognathic surgery is life-changing for those affected, and we must ensure they receive the care they need in a timely manner,” Deputy Fleming said.

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The HSE has confirmed that waiting times vary depending on the stage of treatment, hospital resources, and availability of specialist staff, with dual-specialty planning and hospital ICU access required for each procedure.

“While I welcome the HSE’s confirmation of the numbers and ongoing work to manage waiting lists, these figures highlight the urgent need to continue expanding specialist staffing and theatre capacity. Patients in Laois and the wider Midlands should not have to wait years for essential surgical treatment,” Deputy Fleming added.

Deputy Fleming has called on the Minister for Health and the HSE to prioritise the reduction of waiting times for orthognathic surgery and ensure that patients across all regions receive timely access to these vital procedures.