. Health Library - South Houston Oral, Facial and Implant Surgery Center

Welcome to our health education library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.

Orthognathic Surgery: Recovering at HomeLa cirug­a ortogn¡tica: Su recuperaci³n en casa

Orthognathic Surgery: Recovering at Home

You just had orthognathic surgery. This is treatment that reshapes the jaws to improve their form and function. Your job now is to keep yourself comfortable and help your body heal quickly. Make sure to get plenty of calories and protein. Get up and move around, but avoid strenuous activity. Be sure to get lots of rest. Keep your mouth and teeth clean to help the incisions heal.

Controlling Swelling and Pain

For the first few days, swelling will likely increase. It should then start to ease. To reduce swelling and pain:

  • Sit or lie with your head and shoulders higher than your heart.

  • Apply an ice pack to your face for 10 minutes at a time, with breaks of at least 5 minutes in between. Keep a thin cloth between the cold source and your skin.

  • Use pain medications as directed.

Nutrition and Fluids

You will need to get enough nutrition, which may be harder while you're not able to chew. You also need fluids to help prevent dehydration and nausea. For calories, protein, and fluids, try total-nutrition drinks, protein powders, soups, milk shakes, and other blended foods. Don't use a straw, since the suction can stress the incisions in your mouth. Instead, use a glass or a "sippy cup" designed for young children. Once you can chew again, eat soft foods that can be cut with a spoon or fork. As you heal, you'll gradually return to your normal eating habits.

Keeping Your Mouth and Teeth Clean

To keep your teeth as clean as possible:

  • If you can't open your jaws, brush the front surfaces of your teeth with a baby toothbrush.

  • If a fluoride toothpaste or mouth rinse is prescribed, use it as directed.

  • If your surgeon advises it, start using an oral irrigator about 10 days after surgery.

  • Aim to get back to brushing and flossing normally as soon as you can.

When to Call Your Surgeon

If you have any of the following problems, call your surgeon:

  • Severe bleeding

  • Pain that can't be controlled

  • Nausea or vomiting that can't be controlled

  • Swelling that continues to worsen after 3-4 days

  • A fever of 100.4°F or higher

Go to the emergency department if your doctor's office is closed.

Date Last Reviewed:

Date Last Modified:

 

Discover the possibilities of noninvasive procedures from an oral surgeon. Call 281-412-0099 or use our convenient online Request an Appointment form.

What Our Clients Say About Us

My name Is Judith O. I had the pleasure to meet Dr. Luis Craig when I was having problems with my vision, my skin wouldn’t allow me to open my eyes or see peripherally completely. My Optometrist suggested I should have “bleph". I was referred to Dr Craig, an excellent person and a great surgeon. He performed my surgery, with no complications, and in a week nobody could tell I had anything done. Not even my Optometrist. She was happy, like me, with the outcome. My vision improved 100%. Thank you Dr Craig. May God bless you and your hands.
Sincerely, Judith, O

Read More
Physician Referral
Request an Appointment
Patient Health Library
Health Updates
smile gallery

Two Locations to Serve You!

2537 Houston Ave.
Pearland, TX 77581
Phone: 281-412-0099 Get Directions

4010 Vista Rd., Ste. B
Pasadena, TX 77504
Phone: 713-947-8832 Get Directions

Copyright © 2024 Practice Builders Healthcare Marketing Agency and South Houston Oral, Facial and Implant Surgery Center. All rights reserved.

Luis T. Craig, DMD, is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and owner of South Houston Oral, Facial & Implant Center located at 2537 Houston Avenue, Pearland, TX and 4010 Vista Road, Suite B, Pasadena, TX. His practice can be reached by calling 713-947-8832.