Jaw correction surgery is a major life-changing event. To many, the chances of having a better function and looks are worth the effort that goes into the recovery process. But, the transition from the operating room to complete recovery is not always easy and needs a lot of effort. It is natural to experience a combination of eagerness and anxiety as you prepare for the post-surgery stage, which is crucial because all the choices made will affect the recovery process. Recovery is not just a passive process of waiting for the body to get better but an active one that involves adhering to certain principles.
Knowing what to expect and how to go about it in the best way possible can be the difference between a good and a bad recovery. Every action taken is important, from changing the diet to reducing swelling and pain, to help you return to your normal life. If you follow the guidelines on post-operative care with the help of your maxillofacial surgeon, then you can improve your comfort, minimize the risk of complications, and shorten the recovery time. Below are seven vital tips that can help you through the process of recovery after jaw correction surgery.
1. Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions
Your maxillofacial surgeon will give you specific instructions based on the type of surgery you are going to undergo and your specific circumstances. These instructions are meant to facilitate your recovery and avoid the development of any complications. One should ensure that they follow these recommendations to the letter whether it is a medication regimen, a diet plan, or an appointment for a follow-up. This is why it is important to always heed your surgeon’s advice, as this will increase your chances of a successful recovery.
2. Maintain a Soft Diet
Another important factor that you need to observe in your recovery process is to stick to a soft or liquid diet. This will also help to avoid putting pressure on your jaw and help in the healing process. Choose foods that do not require much chewing and are easy on the jaw, like smoothies, soups, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and pureed vegetables. Begin to resume the intake of solid foods as directed by your surgeon while avoiding any strain on the jaw.
3. Keep Your Head Elevated
Raising your head, particularly while sleeping, can help reduce swelling by a great deal. It assists in the reduction of complications by allowing the fluid to drain away from the surgical area. To prevent the head and neck from tilting, one should use additional pillows or a wedge pillow while sleeping. This small change can go a long way in determining how comfortable you will be and how fast you will heal.
4. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
It is important to brush the teeth and clean the mouth to avoid getting infections and promote the healing process. As for oral hygiene, you should follow your surgeon’s advice and use the recommended mouth rinse or a gentle non-allergenic mouthwash. When brushing your teeth, especially in the morning, ensure that you do not apply pressure on the surgical area. Maintaining cleanliness in your mouth will help in a faster healing process and minimize the chances of getting complications after surgery.
5. Manage Swelling and Bruising
Tenderness and bruising are normal after jaw correction surgery, but you can easily control them. For the first two days, use cold packs on your face to minimize swelling and to help numb any pain. Following this, one should switch to warm compresses in order to increase blood flow to the affected area and facilitate healing. This kind of schedule can also help you reduce the severity of your symptoms and shorten the time it takes for you to heal.
6. Avoid Strenuous Activities
You should not lift anything heavy, engage in any form of exercise or any other activity that may strain your body for several weeks after the surgery. Such activities can put a lot of pressure on the healing jaw and this may cause some complications. Slowly return to your normal routine as you wish and as your surgeon advises you to do so. Also, ensure that you do not subject your jaw to any form of impact or knock during this time.
7. Stay Hydrated and Rest
It is important that you remain well-hydrated and get enough rest, as these are part of the recovery process. Staying hydrated is important for the body and helps the healing process when you are sick or have an injury. Rest and sleep should be given a top priority so that the body can regain its strength. Do not consume alcohol and caffeine as these will hinder your healing process and your fluid intake. Staying hydrated and getting enough rest will also help in the recovery process to be more efficient.
Conclusion
Recovering from jaw correction surgery involves careful attention to your post-operative care. By following your maxillofacial surgeon’s instructions, you’re setting yourself up for a successful recovery. Embrace these steps, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying the results of your surgery with confidence.
For more personalized guidance and support during your recovery, consider scheduling a follow-up appointment with Gnathos Facial. Our experienced team is here to ensure your healing process is smooth and successful. Contact us today to learn more about our post-operative care services and how we can assist you every step of the way.