Recovery from Orthognathic Surgery

When anticipating corrective jaw surgery, it is important to understand the recovery process. Corrective jaw surgery – also known as orthognathic surgery – aims to improve jaw alignment, occlusal function (how teeth line up to form your bite), and facial esthetics. These surgeries can be mildly to majorly invasive, making the recovery process very important.

Immediately After Surgery

After the surgery is complete, you will be taken to a recovery area where a medical team will closely monitor you. You still may feel sleepy from the anesthesia. It is normal to experience swelling, discomfort, and even numbness in your face and mouth post-surgery. The medical team may provide pain medication and other instructions to help you feel comfortable.

Postoperative Recovery

You may have to stay in the hospital overnight following corrective jaw surgery. During this time, your OMS will monitor your recovery and offer advice on oral hygiene and dietary restrictions. It is important to follow these instructions carefully for a smooth recovery.

Swelling and Discomfort

Swelling is a common side effect after orthognathic surgery. Applying an ice pack to your face – as directed by your oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) – can help reduce swelling. Discomfort and pain also can be managed with prescribed medications. It is possible for a small amount of swelling and numbness to persist up to several months or longer.

Dietary Restrictions

During the early stages of recovery, diet may be limited to soft foods and liquids to allow proper healing. It is important to follow your OMS’s dietary instructions. As healing progresses, you can gradually transition back to a normal diet under your OMS’s guidance.

Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene is always important, but even more so during jaw surgery recovery. Your OMS should give you specific instructions about cleaning your mouth, teeth, and surgical site. General instructions typically include gently brushing teeth, rinsing with a recommended mouthwash, and avoiding using straws and spitting excessively.

Gradually Return to Normal Activities

As you recover, you will gradually regain strength and feel better. It’s important to listen to your body and avoid strenuous exercise in the first few weeks of recovery. Your OMS will provide guidance for slowly resuming normal activities such as school, work, and exercise.

Plans for Follow-up

During your recovery period, you will have several follow-up appointments with your OMS. These appointments allow the OMS to monitor your healing progress, remove sutures if necessary, and address any concerns or questions. It is important to keep these appointments and communicate openly with your OMS.

The exact recovery schedule for corrective jaw surgery will vary from person to person. However, the initial swelling and discomfort usually subside within a few weeks. Most people can expect to make a full recovery within three to six months, although it takes the jaws between nine and 12 months to fully heal. Recovery time depends on the complexity of your surgery and your individual healing factors. Share any concerns or difficulties you have with your OMS as they are there to guide you through the recovery process and create the best possible outcome.