The constricted maxillary as one of the most common problems in craniofacial deformity causes serious malocclusion, always coupled with nasal airway deficiency, mouth breath, and hearing loss. Rapid maxillary expansion( RME) is an effective way to open up the developing palatal mid-suture and widen the constricted maxillary. In this procedure, the maxillofacial tissues are rebuilt, and have positive effects on the function of the surrounded tissues, improving nasal airway deficiency, mouth breath, and hearing loss. This paper reviewed about the effects of RME on maxillofacial structures and function.