How Long Does Jaw Surgery Take To Heal?

Jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is a life-changing procedure for individuals dealing with misaligned jaws, chronic pain, or functional issues affecting their quality of life. While the benefits of jaw surgery are often undeniable, the healing process can raise a lot of questions for patients preparing for the procedure. Understanding what to expect and knowing how long the recovery process takes can help ease concerns and make the experience more manageable.

At the Dental Implant Center of Rockville, we believe preparation and knowledge are essential to patients’ comfort and confidence. In this article, we’ll explore the timeline of recovery from jaw surgery, factors that influence healing, and how patients can support their recovery for the best possible results.

The Initial Recovery Phase

The first phase of recovery happens immediately following your surgery. The procedure itself is typically performed under general anesthesia, and most patients can expect to spend one to two days in the hospital for observation. During this time, swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common as your body begins to heal.

Your oral surgeon will provide detailed post-operative instructions, including medication to manage pain and swelling. For the first one to two weeks, your diet will likely consist of liquids or very soft foods, as chewing may strain the jaw and prolong inflammation. By the end of this phase, you should begin to feel more comfortable, but rest and limited activity are crucial.

Quick Tips for the First Few Weeks:

• Follow your surgeon’s dietary guidelines closely.
• Keep your head elevated to reduce swelling.
• Apply cold packs as recommended to ease discomfort.

Complete Healing of the Jaw

While the initial healing phase passes within a couple of weeks, the complete recovery of your jaw will take longer. Bone typically takes about six to eight weeks to heal sufficiently after surgery, though the timeline can depend on the complexity of the procedure and each individual’s healing capacity.

During this stage, your surgeon may schedule follow-up visits to monitor progress and ensure the jaw is aligned correctly. It’s important to attend all these appointments so adjustments, if necessary, can be made early.

Resuming normal activities is typically possible within four to six weeks, but strenuous activities, especially those that could risk strain or injury to the jaw, should be avoided for up to three months. Patients may also begin enjoying a more expansive diet as long as their surgeon approves.

Factors That Influence Recovery Time

The length of recovery is impacted by a variety of factors, both medical and lifestyle-based. Here are some key considerations:

1. Complexity of Surgery. Patients undergoing minor corrections will generally have faster recovery times than those needing extensive realignments or additional procedures, such as addressing sleep apnea or TMJ disorders.
2. Patient's Age and Health. Younger patients or those in excellent overall health often experience faster healing than older individuals or those with underlying health conditions.
3. Post-Surgery Care. Strictly following your surgeon’s instructions, keeping follow-up appointments, and avoiding behaviors like smoking significantly contribute to faster and smoother healing.

Understanding these variables empowers patients to make informed decisions and take active steps to aid their recovery.

Setting Expectations for the Long-Term Benefits

Healing from jaw surgery doesn’t end when the physical pain is gone. Adjusting to your newly aligned jaw is part of the process. Chewing, speaking, and other jaw motions may feel different at first, and it can take weeks or months for these movements to become comfortable and second nature again.

The long-term benefits, however, are well worth the recovery period. Not only does jaw surgery often relieve chronic pain and improve functionality, but it can also enhance facial symmetry and overall appearance. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Jaw Surgery

How painful is jaw surgery recovery? 

While some discomfort is normal after surgery, significant pain can usually be managed with prescribed medication. The first couple of weeks may feel challenging due to swelling and limited jaw use, but many patients report that the discomfort subsides significantly after the initial two-week period. Patience, rest, and proper care make all the difference.

When can I start eating regular foods again? 

Patients typically start with a liquid or soft-food diet immediately after surgery to prevent strain on the jaw. Over the next few weeks, as healing progresses, softer solid foods can be introduced. By eight weeks, with your surgeon’s approval, you should gradually return to normal eating habits.

At the Dental Implant Center of Rockville, we specialize in advanced oral and maxillofacial surgery to help our patients achieve functional and aesthetic improvements. Our experienced team serves the communities of Rockville, Gaithersburg, Bethesda, Olney, Silver Spring, and beyond. For more information or to book a consultation, contact us.