Orthognathic Surgery

+ INSTRUCTIONS

Important Instructions for Recovery

Proper care following orthognathic surgery is essential to ensure healing and manage discomfort. Follow these guidelines to promote a smooth recovery process.

Anesthesia

• Do NOT drive or operate machinery for at least 24 hours.

Bleeding

• Slight bleeding is common for as long as 24 hours after surgery.
• If bleeding is heavy and will not stop, please contact the office.

Pain

• Postoperative pain is usually worst the night of surgery and will slowly decrease over the next three to four days.
• Norco (hydrocodone with acetaminophene) is usually prescribed for pain. Please note that Lortab contains Tylenol and additional Tylenol SHOULD NOT be taken.
• Over-the-counter Ibuprofen can be taken in addition unless you are unable to take NSAID’s.
• It is best to alternate Norco and Ibuprofen every three hours.

Nausea and Vomiting

• Nausea and vomiting is the most common complaint the night of surgery.
• This is usually a reaction to the pain medication. Try to get something on your stomach prior to taking any of the medications.
• If nausea and vomiting persists, contact the office so that an anti-nausea medication can be prescribed.

Sutures

• Sutures are placed to adapt the tissues and help with bleeding.
• The sutures are resorbable and do not have to be removed.
• Sutures will normally come out on their own roughly 5-7 days after surgery.
• Sutures will occasionally come out the night of surgery. Unless associated with heavy bleeding, we do not replace these sutures.

Diet

• The first week after surgery should be a total liquid diet. (Boost, Ensure, milkshakes, etc.)
• The second week will progress to soft foods. (Mashed potatoes, applesauce, cottage cheese)
• The third week progresses to foods like pastas or ground beef. (Macaroni, spaghetti, etc.)
• The fourth week will go back to a reasonably normal diet.

Swelling

• Swelling is a normal result of orthognathic (jaw) surgery.
• Ice packs for the first 48 hours will decrease swelling. Do not leave ice packs on for more than 20 minutes at a time.
• Moist heat can be used at that time.
• Sitting in a recliner versus lying flat will help decrease swelling during the first 48 hours.

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We’re here to answer any questions and help you schedule your appointment at Tri-State Oral Surgery. Whether you’re looking for more information or ready to book your first visit, our team is available to assist you.