Going into any kind of surgery is scary, particularly because you don’t know what could happen during and after the procedure. Orthognathic surgery (also known as corrective jaw surgery) is an option for many patients who are seeking to straighten their teeth and bite. However, it is an intense and major operative procedure. The good news is that Olson Orthodontics is here to help! Our expert team is to help you plan your treatment. We have tips for you to prepare before and after your orthognathic surgery. We want all our patients to feel comfortable and secure before, during, and after their surgery so that they can recover properly.
Emphasis Before Surgery
Before going into any surgery, it’s important to prepare yourself physically and mentally. Being prepared will make the recovery process much more smoother and successful. Here are ways to prepare before your surgery.
Two Weeks Before: Follow your doctor’s advice and instructions. This can include what medications to take and what diet to follow. Also, let your employer know and request to take days off work to rest right after surgery. It’s also smart to have support. Have a family member or friend take care of you by taking you to the hospital, be there with you, and bring you back home to recover. Smoking should be avoided at all costs before, during, and after surgery.
One Week Before: Your doctor may request a pre-operative procedure and check-up be conducted. This might mean having to take x-rays taken of your jaw as well as impressions. Bloodwork and discussions about your medical history may also be required to ensure if you’re a fit for surgery. Legal aspects, such as gathering your consent for surgery, will also be discussed.
24 Hours Before: You will be expected to fast (not eat or drink) anything 12 hours before your surgery. Depending on what your doctor decides, you might have to stop taking certain medications to prevent any adverse reactions during surgery. Pack anything you’ll need to take to the hospital such as comfortable clothes, medical documents, etc. You should leave any valuables at home, including any jewelry you wear frequently. A few hours before the surgery, you can choose to brush your teeth and take a shower before heading to the hospital.
Emphasis After Surgery
After surgery, it’s important to follow any instructions your doctor advises. During this time you’ll have to pay special attention to a few things to ensure a quick and successful recovery.
- Medications: Your doctor will prescribe pain medications to ease the pain and pressure you feel, as well as speed up your recovery. Make sure to follow the directions your doctor/pharmacist recommends.
- Diet: Chewing will be painful, therefore, your diet will change over the next couple of weeks. This means you’ll be mostly eating liquid foods, such as soup, yogurt, smoothies, or even mashed foods. Fine pasta is also good. The key is to avoid moving the jaw and giving it rest to heal. Instead of eating large meals, try eating in smaller portions throughout the day.
- Hygiene: Keeping up with oral hygiene will be important post-surgery to avoid infections. This means you’ll have to brush and rinse each day, but because of the pain, it can be hard to do. Start small with subtle brush movements. Avoid any mechanical toothbrushes as the intense vibrations to your jaw will cause pain.
- Activities: Surgery is traumatic to the body and will require rest for recovery. Take it easy the first week. You should be able to resume most of your daily activities after the first week, however, avoid any intense physical activities. Our advice is to stay away from any sports or strenuous activities that can increase the risk of injury.
Emphasis Get a Consultation Today!
Are you thinking of getting orthognathic surgery, or any other type of orthodontic treatment? Come see us at Olsen Orthodontics! Dr. Olsen and his staff are highly qualified, trained experts to give you the best orthodontic treatment you need. Contact us today to schedule your first visit! If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to our Litchfield Park and Verrado/Buckeye, AZ offices. We are happy to help you get started!