The practice of oral surgery in Invercargill has a long and rich history, beginning with the arrival of the late Mr Thomas Trevathan in the late 1960s. Mr Trevathan was the first oral surgeon in the Southland region and established a reputation as a skilled and compassionate practitioner.

Mr Peter Christmas took over the practice in 1985 upon his return from specialist training in the United Kingdom. Mr Christmas quickly established himself as one of the greater region's leading oral and maxillofacial surgeons. He was known for his innovative surgical techniques and helped advance the field of oral surgery in Invercargill. Mr Christmas placed some of the earliest original Branemark dental implants (now Nobel Biocare) when the technology arrived on New Zealand shores in the late 1980s. He also performed some of the earliest bimaxillary osteotomy surgeries in New Zealand that used internal fixation.

Both Mr Christmas and Mr Trevathan held posts as consultant oral and maxillofacial surgeons/oral surgeons at Southland Hospital and its preceding institutions.

Throughout the years, the practice has continued to evolve, incorporating new technologies and techniques and adapting to the changing needs of patients. The practice remains the centre of oral surgery in Invercargill and continues to provide patients with the highest quality of care and treatment.

The history of oral surgery in Invercargill is one of progress and growth, driven by the dedication and expertise of practitioners like Thomas Trevathan and Peter Christmas. Their legacy has inspired and guided the next generation of oral surgeons, ensuring that the practice remains at the forefront of excellence in oral surgery in Invercargill.