Orthognathic Surgery (OMFS) Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for orthognathic surgery (omfs): what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
Nutrition During Recovery
- •Aim for 2000+ calories daily even on liquid diet
- •Protein shakes, smoothies with protein powder, pureed soups
- •Supplement with vitamins if directed by your surgeon
Orthognathic Surgery (OMFS) recovery, day by day
Immediate Post-Op
- You will be in the hospital for 1-2 nights
- Jaw may be wired or banded; follow surgeon's instructions exactly
- Swelling will be significant; ice packs on both sides
Breathing & Nutrition
- Breathe through your mouth if nose is congested (common)
- Liquid diet only: protein shakes, broth, smoothies through a syringe
- Keep wire cutters/scissors nearby at all times (for emergencies with wired jaws)
Swelling & Pain
- Swelling peaks at days 3-5, then gradually improves
- Jaw stiffness and numbness are expected
- Take medications exactly as prescribed
- Sleep upright or semi-reclined for 1-2 weeks
Diet
- Strict liquid diet if jaw is wired
- Soft, pureed foods if jaw is banded (as directed)
- Use a syringe or small spoon for feeding
- High-protein supplements to support healing
Recovery Milestones
- Bands/wires typically removed at 4-6 weeks
- Begin jaw opening exercises as directed
- Transition to soft foods once cleared
- Numbness in chin/lip may take months to resolve (possibly permanent)
Long-Term Recovery
- Jaw strength gradually returns over months
- Resume normal diet as tolerated
- Orthodontic adjustments continue (if applicable)
- Full bone healing verified by imaging at 3-6 months
When to call your provider or 911
- •Difficulty breathing
- •Excessive bleeding from mouth or nose
- •Hardware (plates/screws) feels loose
- •Wires break or loosen
- •Fever above 101°F
- •Inability to keep liquids down
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 5
Peak swelling
Swelling worst at days 3-5 then gradually improves
- Day 14
Soft foods allowed
Transition from liquid to soft diet if cleared
- Day 42
Bands/wires removed
Jaw opening exercises begin
- Day 30
Expected recovery
Jaw strength returns, resume normal diet
For clinics
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