Jaw surgery is an involved medical procedure that can take several hours. The exact amount of time needed depends on the type of procedure and the complexity of the case. In general, jaw surgeries can take anywhere from two to eight hours, with some complicated cases taking even longer.
Types of Jaw Surgery
Jaw surgery can involve a variety of procedures, including orthognathic surgery, maxillomandibular advancement (MMA), and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) surgery. Orthognathic surgery is performed to correct malocclusion, or misaligned teeth and jaws. MMA surgery is used to correct facial deformities and TMJ surgery addresses jaw joint problems.
Preparation for Surgery
Before surgery, the patient will need to undergo a variety of tests to determine their eligibility for the procedure. This includes X-rays, a physical exam, and a CT scan. The patient’s medical history will also need to be reviewed.
Surgery Day
On the day of surgery, the patient will need to arrive at the hospital or surgical center early. They will need to undergo anesthesia, which may involve general anesthesia or a local anesthetic. Once the patient is sedated, the surgeon will make an incision in the jaw and reposition the bones. The surgeon may also need to make other adjustments to the jaw and teeth. Once the surgery is complete, the incision will be closed and the patient will be monitored in recovery.
Recovery
Once the patient is discharged from the hospital, they will need to follow their doctor’s instructions for post-operative care. This includes taking medications to reduce inflammation and swelling, and following their doctor’s instructions for diet and physical activity. Some patients may need to wear a protective jaw splint for several weeks following surgery.
The amount of time needed for recovery varies from person to person, but most patients can expect to be fully recovered from jaw surgery within a few weeks. However, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure a successful recovery.