What to Expect Recovering From Orthognathic Surgery

Orthognathic or jaw surgery is a procedure that corrects jawbone irregularities, realigning the jaws and teeth. Apart from improving facial appearance, the surgery also enhances dental function. 

If you have jaw issues that cannot be resolved using orthodontics alone, you can benefit from jaw surgery. Orthognathic surgery is recommended after growth stops, usually in late teenage or early adulthood. 

When Orthognathic Surgery Is Done

Orthognathic surgery can help:

• Correct bite problems and make chewing easier
• Correct speech and swallowing problems 
• Reduce excessive wear of the teeth
• Address jaw closure problems and bite fit 
• Relieve temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues and other problems
• Enable the lips to close comfortably 
• Correct asymmetry or facial imbalance 
• Repair facial birth defects or injuries
• Treat obstructive sleep apnea 

During Orthognathic Surgery

Orthognathic surgery is performed under general anesthesia by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. It is usually conducted in a hospital setting and requires a two-to-four-day hospital stay. During the surgery, the surgeon makes jawbone cuts before moving them into position. 

The bones are secured in position using screws, bone plates, and wires. Performing the procedure inside the mouth ensures no facial scars on the jaw, chin, or around the mouth. Over time, the small screws are integrated into the bone. 

Recovering From Orthognathic Surgery

After jaw surgery, the surgeon will provide aftercare instructions. The mouth is delicate after surgery, so you must avoid eating solid food during recovery. You will receive instructions on how to keep your mouth clean, as brushing and flossing will be difficult. 

Avoid strenuous activities, using tobacco products, and alcohol consumption, as they can impact healing and recovery. You will receive pain medications to ensure comfort. Initial healing usually takes about six weeks, but complete recovery can take 12 weeks. 

Side Effects After Surgery

Patients often experience pain and discomfort in the first days after surgery. There are common side effects associated with orthognathic surgery. They include:

• Discomfort, pain, or soreness
• Grogginess and fatigue
• Bruising or swelling
• Drooling
• Sore throat
• Jaw and muscle spasms
• Oral and nasal bleeding
• Numbness in the cheeks, chin, and lips 

Results of Orthognathic Surgery

Correcting jaw and teeth alignment can lead to improved lower face appearance. It also helps improve teeth function and speech impairments. It enhances breathing, chewing, swallowing, and sleeping. Other benefits of the procedure include boosting overall appearance and self-esteem. 

Orthognathic surgery is performed on the lower jaw, upper jaw, chip, or a combination. In some cases, the procedure may require the addition of extra bone to the jaw. The surgeon will harvest the bone from the patient’s leg, hip, or rib. The bone is secured using plates and screws. The surgeon will reshape the jawbone for some patients to improve the fit. 

Getting plenty of rest is essential during the recovery period. You should get help around the home during the initial week of recovery. An ice pack or cold compress can help reduce swelling, bruising, and pain. 

For more on what to expect from orthognathic surgery, visit Oral Surgical Associates at our Missoula or Hamilton, Montana, office. Call (406) 282-8768 to schedule an appointment today.