Post-Operative Instructions
Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)
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- •You will be on a liquid or soft diet for 6–8 weeks. Your surgeon will give you a detailed diet progression plan.
- •Swelling will be significant for the first 2 weeks and continues to resolve gradually over 3–6 months. Your final result is not visible until swelling has fully resolved.
- •Keep your head elevated while resting to reduce swelling. Avoid lying flat.
- •Oral hygiene is essential — rinse carefully with warm saltwater and use a soft brush or swab as instructed.
- •Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments. Jaw surgery recovery is closely monitored, and your bite alignment will be assessed at each visit.
- •Avoid strenuous activity for at least 4 weeks. No contact sports for a minimum of 8 weeks.
- •Call the office immediately for fever above 101°F, inability to manage fluids, numbness that worsens rather than improves, or any change in how your teeth come together.