Recovery from Mandibular Osteotomy
The procedure takes place in a hospital. The discomfort is usually worse for the first few days, although it may take a couple of weeks to completely disappear regular pain reliefs will be arranged. Patients are sent home with pain relief and a course of antibiotics.
Immediately after the Mandibular Osteotomy operation the face will be swollen, feel tight and jaws will feel stiff. Patients find that they cannot open their mouth widely. The throat may also be uncomfortable and swallowing can be difficult initially.
Swelling and bruising is variable but is generally worst on the second or third day after the operation. The swelling can be reduced by using cold compresses and sleeping propped upright for a few days. Most of the swelling has disappeared after a fortnight but there is often some subtle swelling that can take several months to disappear.
Initially, for the first day or two patients will only want liquids, but very quickly they should be able to manage soft foods and then gradually build up to a normal diet over the next few weeks. This varies from person to person but most patients spend two or sometimes three nights, in hospital after this operation. The position of the jaw will be checked with X-rays.
Most people have around a week or two off work. Make sure that this is arranged prior to the operation. For more information on Mandibular Osteotomy Surgery or for a consult please ask your GP or dentist for a referral to Faciomax and book an appointment with our friendly team.