If you are planning to have a corrective orthognathic surgery, you may have concerns about how you’ll progress through recovery after the procedure. Fortunately, there are several steps that you can take to make your recovery more comfortable.
GET AHEAD OF THE PAIN
It is recommended that you start taking your pain medication about four hours after your surgery, before your anesthetic wears off. This will help you to stay ahead of the pain and to remain comfortable immediately after the procedure. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions in terms of how often you should be taking your medication.
CHANGE UP YOUR DIET
The day before your oral surgery, take a trip to the grocery store in order to prepare for your post-procedure diet. Stock your refrigerator and kitchen cabinets with items for your liquid diet, including broth and light-colored juice for right after surgery. You’ll also want to purchase smoothies, milk shakes, foods to process with a blender, and gelatin to have later on.
RELAX
It is going to be some time before you’re going to be able to jump back into your normal activities, so prepare to take some time off of school or work. Your oral surgeon will tell you how much time you need to take off, but this usually ranges from one to three weeks. After that, you’ll be able to resume non-strenuous activities, but you’ll have to be careful not to over-exert yourself.
KEEP YOUR MOUTH CLEAN
When you return home from surgery, you’ll need to have a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and Peridex mouth rinse. You’ll be placed on a strict dental hygiene routine, rinsing with Peridex and cleaning around any dental appliances using the toothbrush. Immediately after the surgery, be sure to avoid disturbing any sutures or blood clots.
If you have any additional questions about your recovery from oral surgery, be sure to contact our office for guidance.