Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery

Recovery Reference Guide

Orthognathic surgery is needed when jaws don’t meet correctly and/or teeth don’t seem to fit with jaws. Teeth are straightened with orthodontics and corrective jaw surgery repositions a misaligned jaw. This not only improves facial appearance, but also ensures that teeth meet correctly and function properly.

Who Needs Orthognathic Surgery?

People who can benefit from orthognathic surgery include those with an improper bite or jaws that are positioned incorrectly. Jaw growth is a gradual process and in some instances, the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. The result can be a host of problems that can affect chewing function, speech, long-term oral health and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects can also affect jaw alignment. Orthodontics alone can correct bite problems when only the teeth are involved. Orthognathic surgery may be required for the jaws when repositioning is necessary.

Difficulty in the following areas should be evaluated:

First 48 Hours

  • Swelling peaks (days 2-3)
  • Sleep with head elevated
  • Ice packs (20 min on / 20 min off)
  • Strict liquid diet
  • Take medications exactly as prescribed
  • Short walks encouraged
  • Call for: breathing difficulty, uncontrolled bleeding, fever >101.5°F

Diet Guidelines

Weeks 0-2

Strict liquid diet
(Protein shakes, smoothies, broths, meal replacement drinks)

Weeks 3-4

Non-chew / soft mashed foods
(Eggs, yogurt, mashed potatoes, soft pasta)

Weeks 5-6

Soft diet
(Light chewing only if cleared)

Weeks 7-8

Gradual return to soft chew foods
(No hard, crunchy, or tough foods until cleared)

Activity Restrictions

Week 1

  • No lifting >10 lbs
  • No bending below heart
  • No exercise
  • No air travel unless cleared

Week 2

  • No lifting >15 lbs
  • No cardio or gym workouts
  • Desk work only if tolerated

Weeks 3-4

  • No lifting >20 lbs
  • No running
  • No contact sports
  • Light walking or stationary bike only

Weeks 5-6

  • Light exercise permitted
  • Light weights (no straining)
  • No contact sports

Weeks 7-8

  • Moderate exercise allowed
  • Non-contact sports allowed
  • Contact sports only after surgeon clearance (typically 8-12 weeks)

If activity causes facial pressure, swelling, or bite changes – STOP.

What Is Normal

  • Swelling (improves weekly)
  • Bruising
  • Numbness of lips/chin
  • Tightness
  • Limited mouth opening
  • 5-15 lb weight loss
  • Fatigue for 2-3 weeks

Swelling improves 80-90% by 8 weeks.
Minor swelling may last 6 months.

Oral Care

  • Gentle brushing with soft toothbrush
  • Prescribed mouth rinse
  • Follow elastic wear instructions exactly

Return to Work / School

  • Desk work: 2-3 weeks
  • Physically demanding work: 6-8 weeks
  • Full unrestricted activity: 8-12 weeks (with clearance)

When to Call the Office

  • Fever >101.5°F
  • Increasing swelling after day 4
  • Persistent bleeding
  • Sudden bite change
  • Severe asymmetrical swelling
  • Breathing difficulty

Remember

Bone healing takes 6-8 weeks, even if you feel well sooner. Protect your surgical result by following diet and activity instructions carefully.