You may decide to have jaw surgery to correct an over or underbite or issues with chewing and speaking. Whenever the actual jaw needs realignment, an operation will be the answer and may be accompanied by orthodontics. It is a major procedure that will require time for recovery. The experts at Oral Surgery Associates of Central Georgia, serving Warner Robins, recommend the following tips to ensure a smooth transition.

How to Manage Your Recovery After Jaw Surgery

1. Handle Swelling & Discomfort

Any major surgical procedure will result in pain and discomfort. If you are in a hospital, you will have nurses and doctors to help you manage pain. Get the prescriptions filled before you get home—have a point person in charge of picking up pain medication or other drugs. To manage swelling, you will want to keep moving the lips and mouth as much as possible rather than lying in bed all day.

Ice or heat packs may be appropriate—ask a surgeon for specific guidance. You may have bruising on the face and chest; this is normal. You also may bleed from the nose and will need to clean the nostrils with long cotton swabs because you may not be allowed to blow your nose for one to two weeks.

2. Prepare Your Care Team & Supplies

Once home from the procedure, you’ll need help from family or friends to assist in the recovery. They can liaise with a surgeon if you have questions, prepare the appropriate food (liquid for the first few days or longer if the jaw will be wired shut), and go for short walks with you to keep blood flowing.

A surgeon may provide syringes for the first few days of eating liquids. Have small paper cups that are flexible and easy to drink from. Consider supplementing soups and pureed foods with nutrition drinks. 

3. Sleep With Your Head Elevated

For the first week or two, you will need to sleep with the head elevated and on your back. Make sure you have thick pillows that won’t squish down too easily. This will help reduce swelling and discomfort. You may want to consider sleeping in a reclining chair for the first few nights.

Recovery from jaw surgery may take a few weeks, but with preparation, it can go smoothly. Oral Surgery Associates of Central Georgia treats TMJ disorders, wisdom teeth extractions, sleep apnea and facial trauma, and more. Call (478) 971-8811 to make an appointment or go to their website to see more of their services.