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Orthognathic Surgery
After the surgery, patients awake in the recovery room. There they will be monitored and observed until they are fit to return to their rooms.
Jaws may be held together with elastics and/or wires. There may also be plastic splints. In many cases, bones may be held internally with small pins, screws or plates. The period of jaw wiring may vary depending on your particular type of surgery. This again should be discussed with your doctor. In many instances, elastics will be used at the time of surgery and it will be necessary for the patients to learn how to apply and remove them. This should be reviewed with Dr Reynolds and with your orthodontist.
Virtually all patients will have some swelling after the soft tissue and bone incisions are made. A pressure dressing or ice pack may be used for a period of time to control this. They are generally removed before you are discharged from hospital.
Medications to control infection, nausea, and swelling are frequently used immediately after the surgery. Pain control medications will also be ordered as required.
Home care will also be discussed thoroughly. Appropriate instructions dealing with liquid and soft diets as well as oral hygiene will be provided. Depending on your age, health and type of surgery, extra help or home nursing may be recommended. Nausea or vomiting are rare but can be managed with the jaws together. It is rare to have to open the jaws urgently, but on discharge from hospital, you may be provided with instructions and/or cutters. Untoward occurrences such as bleeding when at home are rare but should be reported immediately. Contact numbers including Dr Reynolds and/or local health centers should be kept nearby.