Our Summary

This study looked at how long it takes for facial swelling to go down after a specific type of jaw surgery. The researchers used 3D imaging to measure the amount of swelling in patients who had undergone this surgery. They found that on average, 60% of the swelling went away after one month, 84% was gone after six months, and nearly 93% disappeared after a year. This suggests that it takes about a year for almost all of the swelling to go away. The researchers also found that factors like the patient’s age, gender, body mass index, or whether they were given a certain medication, didn’t significantly affect how quickly the swelling went down. After a year, about 10% of the original swelling was still present.

FAQs

  1. How long does it typically take for facial swelling to go down after jaw surgery?
  2. What factors were found to not significantly affect the rate at which swelling decreases after jaw surgery?
  3. What percentage of the initial swelling is still present one year post-surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about jaw surgery is to be patient with the healing process. It can take up to a year for the swelling to completely go down, so it’s important to follow post-operative instructions, attend follow-up appointments, and give your body time to heal properly. Additionally, practicing good oral hygiene and avoiding hard or chewy foods can help promote healing and prevent complications. If you have any concerns or questions during your recovery, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended jaw surgery include those with:

  • Severe malocclusion or misalignment of the jaw
  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
  • Facial asymmetry
  • Sleep apnea
  • Difficulty chewing or biting
  • Chronic jaw pain
  • Difficulty speaking or swallowing due to jaw issues

Overall, jaw surgery is recommended for patients who have functional or aesthetic concerns related to their jaw alignment and structure.

Timeline

Before jaw surgery:

  1. Consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss treatment options and determine if surgery is necessary.
  2. Pre-operative appointments for medical evaluations, dental impressions, and imaging studies.
  3. Orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and prepare the jaw for surgery.
  4. Pre-surgical instructions on diet, medications, and post-operative care.

After jaw surgery:

  1. Immediate post-operative care in the recovery room, including monitoring for complications and pain management.
  2. Swelling and bruising in the face and neck area, which typically peaks within 2-3 days after surgery.
  3. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.
  4. Gradual return to normal activities and diet as swelling decreases and jaw function improves.
  5. Continued orthodontic treatment to finalize the bite and ensure long-term stability of the surgical results.
  6. Long-term follow-up appointments to monitor jaw function, aesthetics, and any potential complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. How long can I expect the swelling to last after jaw surgery?
  2. Are there any specific factors that may affect how quickly the swelling goes down in my case?
  3. Are there any medications or treatments that can help reduce swelling post-surgery?
  4. What can I do at home to help manage and reduce swelling during the recovery process?
  5. Are there any warning signs or symptoms of excessive swelling that I should watch out for?
  6. How often should I follow up with you to monitor the progress of the swelling after surgery?
  7. Are there any specific activities or habits that I should avoid to prevent prolonged swelling?
  8. Will the swelling impact my ability to eat, speak, or perform daily activities?

Reference

Authors: Reategui A, Phillips S, Dinis J, Junn A, Parsaei Y, Yang J, Lopez J, Steinbacher DM. Journal: J Craniofac Surg. 2022 Mar-Apr 01;33(2):512-516. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000008270. PMID: 34619733