Orthognathic Surgery Surgical Instructions

AFTER ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY

IMPORTANT: No driving for 72 hours after surgery and while taking narcotic medication.

Periodic bleeding is expected following oral surgery. If bleeding is persistent, wipe away large formed clots. Place a pre-moistened gauze pad over the bleeding point and apply pressure by biting or pressing with fingertip. Continue firm pressure for 30 minutes before removing gauze and resume if necessary. Use of a moist tea bag maybe helpful to control bleeding instead of gauze.
Do not rinse or spit for 24 hours after surgery.
Try to keep tongue away from surgical area as to not disturb the blood clot.

For mild discomfort take Tylenol or Ibuprofen every 3-4 hours. However, don't take tylenol if you are taking your prescribed pain medicine as it typically has tylenol. If unsure, check with the office.
For severe pain use the prescribed medication. Please take all prescriptions as directed.
Application of an ice bag can also help relieve discomfort. Use for the first 24 to 36 hours only.
A full stomach minimizes nausea associated with some prescription medications.
A shake or smoothie is a good start. Do not use a straw. After 24 hours, continue to take your medication if pain persists.

The surgical area may swell. Swelling peaks on the 2nd or 3rd post-operative day. Trismus (swelling) of the muscles may cause difficulty in opening your mouth for a few days.
Ice packs applied to the sides of the face are of some help. Use ice packs for the first 48 hours; apply ice 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. Bags of frozen peas work well.
After the first 48 hours, discontinue cold packs and begin warm compresses. A moist wash cloth can be warmed in the microwave. Be sure to touch test it before to avoid burning yourself.

Great care should be exercised to brush your teeth and wires after each meal, at least three (3) times a day.
Rinse mouth gently with a solution of one-half teaspoon of salt dissolved in a glass of water three (3) times a day. Occasionally, a prescription mouthwash is given. Use as directed. Avoid over-the-counter mouthwashes.
Clean around skin sutures using a 50/50 solution of water and peroxide Apply neosporin on to site following. Do this twice a day.

Have your meals at the usual time.
Eat soft, nutritious foods and drink plenty of liquids.
No straws, smoking, spitting, or carbonated drinks for three (3) weeks.
No abrasive foods such as: chips, popcorn, seeds, and nuts.
Use your syringe with tube attached to make it easier for you to get something in your stomach.

Use ice packs for the first 48 hours; apply ice 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. After the first 48 hours, discontinue cold packs and begin warm compresses.
A dressing may be placed over the hip incision. If so, it will be removed by your surgeon at your post-operative visit.
If there is no dressing present; Clean incision using a 50/50 solution of water and peroxide. Apply neosporin on to site following. Do this twice a day.

In addition to the above instructions, please remember:

Keep your head elevated for two (2) weeks after surgery. This will allow your sinuses to drain and minimize swelling.
No heavy lifting nor strenuous activity for three (3) weeks.
Do not drink through a straw for three (3) weeks, use a cup or the syringe provided.
Do not blow your nose for two (2) weeks.
If given a decongestant, complete the prescription.
Finish antibiotics.
Your surgeon will remove all bandages that have been placed at your post-operative visit.

Women Please Note: Some antibiotics may interfere with the effectiveness of your birth control pills. Please check with your physician.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions that you may have.