Expert Mandibular Reconstruction Consultant in London

At Axel Head and Neck, we provide specialist mandibular reconstruction in London for patients requiring jaw reconstruction following cancer treatment, trauma, infection, or complex bone loss.

Led by Mr Axel Sahovaler, an experienced consultant head and neck surgeon with advanced training in reconstructive microsurgery, we deliver highly specialised treatment designed to restore jaw function, facial symmetry and long-term quality of life.

Mandibular reconstruction is one of the most complex procedures in head and neck surgery, requiring precision, planning and microsurgical expertise.

What is Mandibular Reconstruction?

Mandibular reconstruction is surgical treatment to rebuild the lower jaw (mandible) after part of it has been removed or damaged.

This is most commonly required following:

• Oral cancer or jaw cancer surgery
• Head and neck cancer involving the mandible
• Severe facial trauma
• Osteoradionecrosis (bone damage after radiotherapy)
• Benign tumours affecting the jaw

The goal is to restore both appearance and essential functions such as chewing, speaking and swallowing.

How is Jaw Reconstruction Performed?

The gold standard approach to mandibular reconstruction involves microsurgical free flap transfer.

Most commonly, bone from the fibula (lower leg bone) is used to reconstruct the jaw. This technique allows:

• Replacement of bone structure
• Restoration of jaw contour
• Potential placement of future dental implants
• Improved facial symmetry

Using advanced microsurgical techniques, blood vessels are reconnected under magnification to ensure long-term viability of the reconstructed jaw.

Why Mandibular Reconstruction is Important

The mandible plays a critical role in:

• Speech
• Chewing
• Swallowing
• Facial balance
• Airway support

Without reconstruction, patients may experience significant functional impairment and facial asymmetry.

Modern jaw reconstruction surgery allows patients to regain both form and function with excellent long-term outcomes.

Mr. Axel Sahovaler

Axel has a unique combination of training and practice in North America, working in very high-volume academic head and neck surgery centers. He has since moved to London, where he has formed a team with Professor Mark McGurk, perfecting minimally invasive techniques in salivary gland surgery. His independent practice is at London Bridge Hospital and his NHS base is at University College London Hospital where his research and teaching take place.

The Surgical Process

Pre-operative Planning

Detailed imaging including CT scans is used to plan the reconstruction. In many cases, 3D virtual surgical planning is utilised to improve precision and outcomes.

Your consultant will explain the surgical plan in detail and discuss recovery expectations.

During Surgery

The affected portion of the mandible is removed if necessary. Bone and soft tissue are harvested from the donor site (commonly the fibula).

Using microsurgery, blood vessels are reconnected to establish circulation. The jaw is shaped to restore natural contour.

Recovery

Patients typically remain in hospital for monitoring following surgery. Recovery includes wound healing, nutritional support and gradual return to oral intake.

Rehabilitation may involve speech and swallowing therapy.

For more information and enquiries

Mandibular Reconstruction After Cancer Treatment

For patients undergoing jaw cancer treatment in London, reconstruction is often performed at the same time as tumour removal.

Immediate reconstruction provides:

• Improved cosmetic outcomes
• Shorter overall treatment time
• Better functional recovery
• Reduced psychological impact

This integrated approach ensures comprehensive cancer and reconstructive care under one specialist team.

Why Choose Axel Head and Neck in London?

Mandibular reconstruction requires advanced microsurgical expertise and oncological experience.

Mr Axel Sahovaler offers:

• Specialist training in head and neck oncology and reconstruction
• Expertise in fibula free flap jaw reconstruction
• Consultant-led personalised treatment
• Access to leading private London hospitals
• Multidisciplinary cancer collaboration
• Clear, compassionate patient support

Our London-based practice combines surgical precision with patient-focused care.

Patient Experience and Testimonials

Many patients come to us with complex head and neck problems, and their feedback highlights our commitment to compassionate care and excellent outcomes. Patients consistently describe the reassurance, clear treatment explanations and personalised attention they receive throughout their surgical journey.

Parotid & Neck Cancer Surgery - Full Facial Nerve Preservation

Axel performed very complex cancer surgery on me, successfully removing a primary tumour deep in my parotid gland and many metastases in my neck. Through clever planning with Virtual Reality and his expert skills, he preserved my facial nerve. 6 months on, I have full facial function and it is nearly impossible to see the significant scars. The excellence of his surgery has preserved my quality of life and I have returned to regular sport. Most important to me has been Axel’s personal support, positivity and compassion as I have faced my cancer and its treatment. He has gone above and beyond all my expectations.

JB

London, UK

Life-Changing Support & Restored Hope

I want to express my deepest gratitude to Dr Axel for meeting me in his clinic on such a short notice. Before meeting him I was completely shattered and had lost all hope after what was communicated to me by other surgical teams. But the day I saw him in clinic, everything changed – his positivity and perspective gave me strength and renewed my faith. From the day I met him until the surgery, not a single day passed without thinking into his words of hope. I will be forever grateful to him. He gave me my life and smile back.

MB

London, UK

Oral Cancer Surgery for Our Son

Mr Sahovaler treated our son for oral cancer in 2022 and performed complex cancer and microvascular reconstructive surgery. His outstanding knowledge of his specialist area and practical surgical expertise has allowed our son to make an excellent recovery. From the outset he has shown empathy and understanding in all his contacts with our family. He took time to explain all the procedures and other relevant information in an honest and clear way so the appropriate choices were made. As medical doctors, my wife and I were apprehensive about what lay ahead but we found Mr Sahovaler’s caring and conscientious approach gave us the confidence and reassurance we needed. We cannot recommend him highly enough to patients who may need his skills, both now and in the future.

IH & KH

London, UK

Mandibular Reconstruction - Family Testimonial

Our family do not have the words to express our gratitude towards Dr Axel and his team. At a time when we were all faced with a barrage of information regarding my father’s impending complex mandibular reconstruction surgery, Dr Axel gave us the assurances we were so desperately seeking with his calm and extremely confident disposition. If you have the misfortune to find yourself diagnosed with a similar condition and requiring surgery, consider yourself very lucky to have someone like him at the helm. This man has nothing less than Hero status in our family and most likely many others!

DK

London, UK

Compassionate Care Before & After Surgery

I was Dr Axel Sahovaler’s patient from late 2022 and underwent surgery with him in April 2023. It’s difficult to put into words his professionalism, pragmatic advice, sense of humour and kindness. In our pre-op appointments Axel always listened to my concerns and answered them honestly and directly which meant I trusted his advice and guidance. Post-op his visits on the ward daily, including weekends, made me recognise that he has a genuine interest and concern for the wellbeing of his patients despite his undoubtedly busy schedule. He always made time to answer any questions I had regarding my recovery. In the early months after my discharge, Axel and his team kept in touch to monitor my progress and I felt very supported by the care he and his team provided. I feel very lucky to have had Axel as my surgeon and to have been under his care.

SS

London, UK

Surgical Oncologist – Precision, Reassurance & Excellent Outcomes

Axel Sahovaler was my Consultant Surgical Oncologist. From the moment we met on the day of my cancer diagnosis in July 2022, Mr Sahovaler was reassuring, precise and motivational in relation to my condition, as well as the prospect of my upcoming treatment. Mr Sahovaler is an excellent surgeon and I did not have any complications during or after my complex cancer surgery. During my stay in hospital, Mr Sahovaler went out of his way to listen to my concerns and provided relevant solutions. I am very grateful to have had Mr Sahovaler as my surgical oncologist during this extremely challenging part of my life and to have his expertise for my ongoing care

DH

London, UK

Book a Consultation for Mandibular Reconstruction in London

If you have been diagnosed with jaw cancer, require mandibular reconstruction following head and neck surgery, or would like expert advice regarding jaw reconstruction treatment in London, we are here to support you.

During your private consultation, your consultant will:

• Assess your diagnosis and imaging
• Explain your surgical options clearly
• Discuss risks, recovery and long-term outcomes
• Create a personalised treatment plan tailored to you

Early specialist input improves both functional and aesthetic outcomes.

Contact Axel Head and Neck today to arrange a consultation with an experienced London consultant head and neck surgeon and take the next step towards restoring jaw function and confidence.

Explore Our Specialist Head and Neck Treatments in London

At Axel Head and Neck, we provide a comprehensive range of specialist head and neck treatments in London, delivered by an experienced consultant surgeon with advanced training in oncology and reconstructive surgery.

Our related treatment pages include:

Head and Neck Surgery

Comprehensive surgical treatment for head and neck cancer, neck lumps, salivary gland disorders and complex reconstructive needs. Learn more about our specialist consultant-led surgical care in London.

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

A minimally invasive procedure used in early head and neck cancer staging to assess lymph node spread and guide further treatment decisions.

Reconstructive Microsurgery

Advanced free flap reconstruction for complex head and neck defects following cancer surgery or trauma, restoring function and appearance.

Mandibular Reconstruction

Specialist jaw reconstruction surgery to restore speech, chewing and facial symmetry after mandibular tumour removal or bone loss.

Oral Cavity Lesions

Expert assessment, biopsy and treatment of mouth ulcers, leukoplakia and early oral cancer by a London head and neck consultant.

Parotid Tumour Treatment

Specialist diagnosis and parotidectomy surgery for benign and malignant salivary gland tumours, with careful facial nerve preservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is mandibular reconstruction surgery?

Mandibular reconstruction is surgery to rebuild the lower jaw after removal due to cancer, trauma or severe bone damage. It restores both function and facial appearance.

What bone is used for jaw reconstruction?

The fibula bone from the lower leg is most commonly used. It provides strong bone structure and can support future dental implants if needed.

How long does mandibular reconstruction surgery take?

Jaw reconstruction surgery typically takes several hours depending on complexity. Your consultant surgeon will provide a personalised estimate during consultation.

Will I be able to eat normally after jaw reconstruction?

Most patients regain the ability to eat and speak effectively after recovery. Rehabilitation and speech therapy may be part of the recovery process.

Is mandibular reconstruction available privately in London?

Yes. Mandibular reconstruction treatment is available in leading private hospitals in London under the care of specialist consultant head and neck surgeons.

What are the risks of jaw reconstruction surgery?

As with all major surgery, risks include infection, bleeding and complications related to the donor site. These risks are carefully discussed during your consultation, and surgery is performed in specialist centres to minimise complications.