POST-OP CARE: ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY

Swelling: Facial swelling is normal and most of it will resolve in 7 – 10 days. Ice packs should be applied to the outside of the face for 20 minutes on / 20 minutes off for the first 36 hours following surgery. Also, sleeping propped upright with pillows or in a recliner for the first few nights following surgery can help reduce swelling. After the first 36 hours, switch the ice packs for moist heat packs. Moist heat packs should be applied to the face several times a day.

Discomfort: Mild to moderate discomfort and jaw stiffness is normal. It is not unusual to have difficulty opening the mouth due to post-operative swelling in the muscles. This should resolve on its own with time. A sore throat in the first 48 hours following surgery is normal and will resolve on its own. Nasal congestion / pressure and minor nosebleed are expected if you had upper jaw surgery. You may wipe or clean your nostrils with a moist q-tips, but do not blow your nose.

Medications:
Prescribed – You will be given a prescription for pain, and in most cases a prescription for antibiotics. It is imperative that you finish taking all of the antibiotics prescribed. The pain medication prescribed should be used as needed for moderate to severe pain. Please notify our office immediately and stop all medications if you develop a rash, hives, or itching.
Over the Counter – Ibuprofen/Motrin/Advil should be used for mild to moderate discomfort. Nasal sprays or decongestants can be used as directed to alleviate congestion and pressure. Chap-Stick or Vaseline should be used to keep lips moist, dry and cracked lips is normal post-operatively.

Oral Hygiene: Brush teeth gently with a small soft bristle toothbrush (you may use toothpaste). Rinse mouth with a mixture of equal parts hydrogen peroxide, salt water and your favorite mouth rinse 3 – 4 times a day for the first one to two weeks.

Diet: It is recommended that a liquid diet be maintained for the first week. After the first week a soft diet is recommended until the doctor advises you otherwise. Acceptable foods include pasta, eggs, hash browns, pancakes, well-cooked vegetables. Foods to avoid include steak, chicken, bread crust, and raw vegetables.

Elastics: Light elastics (rubber bands) will usually be in place immediately after your surgery. Limit your jaw motion until instructed otherwise.

Smoking: Do not smoke for at least the first 24 hours following surgery. Smoking after surgery will result in delayed or impaired healing.

Numbness: Numbness or tingling in the lips, tongue, checks, gums, or teeth is normal after jaw surgery. This should return to a normal within a matter of a few weeks. In rare cases, several months may be required for normal sensation to return. If concerns regarding numbness are encountered, please contact our office.

Problems: Should you have any questions or concerns please feel free to call our office at any time.

If you have any questions or concerns prior to surgery please call our office:

Farmington Hills: (248) 553-3280
Canton: (734) 656-2500
Brighton: (810) 229-9600