When you undergo jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, it’s crucial to know what the recovery process involves. This type of surgery, which repositions misaligned jaws, is not only significant for improving your ability to chew, speak, and breathe but also has a profound impact on your appearance and overall quality of life. At Union City Oral Surgery Group, we understand the importance of being fully informed about the recovery phase so you can prepare adequately and have realistic expectations.
Our team, led by Dr. Nancy Herbst, is committed to providing thorough pre-operative consultations and comprehensive post-operative care. With over 25 years of experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery, Dr. Herbst ensures every patient receives personalized attention and care tailored to their specific surgical needs.
Immediate Post-Operative Recovery
The first few days after jaw surgery are critical for your recovery. During this period, you can expect some swelling, discomfort, and restricted jaw movement. It’s important to follow a modified diet, which initially includes liquid and soft foods to avoid strain on your jaw. Pain management is a key aspect of the immediate recovery phase, and appropriate pain relievers may be prescribed to help manage your discomfort.
In addition to medication, applying ice packs to the face in the first 48 hours post-surgery helps reduce swelling. Rest is equally important; we recommend keeping your head elevated and avoiding any strenuous activity. Our team will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your surgical site at home, which is vital for preventing infection and promoting healing.
Hydration is crucial, so drinking plenty of water and avoiding hot beverages is advised. It’s also important to avoid using straws as the sucking motion can affect the surgery site. Union City Oral Surgery Group ensures you have access to our team for any questions or concerns that might arise during this initial recovery period.
Long-Term Healing and Care
As the weeks progress, you will notice gradual improvements. Swelling will decrease, and you will be able to introduce more solid foods into your diet as directed by Dr. Herbst. It’s important to maintain excellent oral hygiene during this time to prevent any complications. We will instruct you on how to brush your teeth gently around the surgery area and possibly prescribe a special mouthwash to help keep the mouth clean.
Routine follow-up visits are essential. These appointments allow Dr. Herbst to monitor your healing and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. Depending on the complexity of your surgery, it might take several months for you to fully recover and experience the final results of your jaw surgery.
Physical therapy may also be part of your recovery process. Exercises designed to improve jaw movement and flexibility can be critical in returning to normal jaw function. Union City Oral Surgery Group collaborates with therapists to ensure you receive the best supportive care.
Adjusting to Life Post-Surgery
Once you have recovered, you’ll likely notice significant improvements not only in function but also in facial aesthetics. It’s normal to experience some changes in how you perceive your face and jawline—many patients report increased confidence and satisfaction with their appearance.
It’s important to give yourself time to adjust to these changes, both physically and emotionally. Support from family, friends, and our care team plays a crucial role during this time. Union City is here to support you through your entire journey, from initial consultation to full recovery.
Living with your new jaw alignment may also require some adjustments in how you eat and speak; however, these changes are generally positive and lead to improved overall health and comfort. We encourage patients to share any concerns or issues, as ongoing adjustments and minor corrective procedures are sometimes necessary.
Why Choose Union City Oral Surgery Group?
Choosing the right team for your jaw surgery is essential for a successful outcome. At Union City Oral Surgery Group, you benefit from state-of-the-art surgical techniques and a highly experienced team led by Dr. Nancy Herbst. We are dedicated to ensuring your comfort and satisfaction throughout the surgical process and recovery.
Our personalized approach means we are with you every step of the way. We understand undergoing jaw surgery is a significant decision, and our goal is to make this experience as smooth and positive as possible. For further information or to schedule a consultation, please call us at (201) 601-9262 or visit our contact form.
