After Orthognathic Surgery

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HOME INSTRUCTIONS AFTER ORTHOGNATHIC OR JAW RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY

IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING SURGERY

Your recovery begins immediately after surgery; it is important you get out of bed as soon as possible, walking around will increase your circulation, reduce swelling, and speed your recovery.

Keep head elevated when possible, sleeping with 2-3 pillows at night.

Ice the area for the next 48 hours. (15 mins on, 15 mins off – this will prevent frostbite to the area)

DIET

A full liquid diet or blended diet will have to be followed if the jaws were wired or rubber banded. You will be given a list of foods to eat after your surgery.

Do not consume alcoholic beverages while taking prescribed medications.

Drink lots of fluids to prevent dehydration and help your body heal.
 

PAIN

Take your pain medication and antibiotics as prescribed by your physician always with food and never on an empty stomach.

Notify your doctor if you have increased pain, swelling or bleeding, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, inability to eat.

ORAL HYGIENE

Oral hygiene is important. Begin some form of oral hygiene as soon as possible.

Avoid tobacco for as long as possible after surgery. Smoking should be avoided during the healing period. Avoid smoking anything the first 4-6 months.

FINALLY
Avoid contact activities and water sports for approximately 8-10 weeks.

You may have difficulty speaking and using a pencil and paper will help. If wires were used to hold your jaw together, they will be removed in approximately 6-8weeks.

Jaw stiffness is normal. Returning to your pre-op range of motion as soon as possible is in your best interest. Gentle stretching exercises three to four times a day is recommended if you are not in tight elastics.
 

PLEASE CALL THE OFFICE IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS