Recovery from these procedures is a gradual process that unfolds over several weeks. Because the jaw must remain immobilized during the critical early healing phase, patients can expect that they will have to make adjustments to their diet, activity level, and daily routines. While this period requires patience and dedication, following your post-operative instructions closely is the single most important factor in achieving a smooth recovery and the best possible outcome.
What to Expect After Your Procedure
Recovery from jaw surgery or maxillomandibular fixation (MMF) requires patience and close attention to your post-operative care. Understanding what is normal during your recovery will help you heal safely and comfortably.
- Swelling: Some degree of swelling is expected and normal following your procedure. Applying ice to the lower face during the first 24–48 hours can help minimize this. Swelling generally begins to subside after the first few days and should be largely resolved within 10–14 days. If you notice swelling that is increasing rather than decreasing after this initial period, contact our office, as this may indicate infection or another complication.
- Pain: Discomfort is to be expected in the early days following surgery. Take your prescribed pain medication as directed, and always make sure you have had some food or fluid before doing so to prevent nausea. Do not attempt to move or open your jaws. This not only increases pain but can trigger muscle spasms and interfere with proper healing.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Nausea can occur, particularly if pain medication is taken on an empty stomach. If you feel nauseated, use your prescribed anti-nausea medication. Should you need to vomit, bend forward or roll onto your side and use a finger to gently pull your cheek outward. Do not attempt to cut your wires or elastics if you feel you are going to vomit.
- Weight Loss: It is not uncommon to lose 5–10 lbs during the first week after surgery. Some patients lose up to 5–10% of their body weight while the jaws are held together. This is temporary and expected.
- Wires and Elastics: Your jaws will be held together with wires and/or rubber bands to allow the bones to heal properly. You may notice some initial discomfort where wires contact your cheeks, lips, or gums. This is normal. Dental wax can be applied to any irritating wire or hook for temporary relief. Simply remove the wax before eating, drinking, or brushing
What to Avoid After Your Procedure
Protecting your healing jaws is critical during your recovery. Please stick to the following restrictions:
- Do not attempt to open or move your jaws. This can loosen or break your hardware, delay healing, and cause the fracture to heal improperly.
- Do not cut, bend, remove, or tamper with your wires or rubber bands for any reason. If wires or elastics become loose or break, call our office immediately.
- No swimming or immersion in water above waist depth. This restriction is in place for your safety while your airway is partially restricted.
- No alcohol and no medications or substances that cause drowsiness or sedation (unless prescribed by our office).
- No contact sports or any activity that carries a risk of trauma to the face.
- Avoid strenuous activity that causes jaw clenching or leaves you short of breath.
- Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages, which can cause significant discomfort, especially through a straw.
- Avoid sun exposure to any skin incisions or scars for the first six months. Always apply sunblock or wear a brimmed hat when outdoors.
General Post-Operative Care Instructions
Diet
You will be on a strict liquid/blended diet for the duration of the time your jaws are held together. Rather than three large meals, aim for smaller, more frequent feedings throughout the day to maintain adequate calorie and nutrient intake. Drink a minimum of 3–4 liters of fluid per day. Liquid nutritional supplements such as Ensure® or Boost® are excellent options and are available at most grocery stores and pharmacies.
Nearly any food can be prepared in liquid form using a blender. Use cold whole milk to thin puddings, yogurt, cereals, ice cream, or cakes. Fruit juice works well for thinning fruits or yogurt. If a blended food remains lumpy, strain it before consuming. Serve all foods at room temperature for the greatest comfort. A plastic syringe can be used to deliver liquids to the back of the mouth early in recovery. A straw or cup can be used when you feel ready.
For medications that are not available in liquid form, crush pills between two spoons and dissolve in juice or mix with applesauce.
Oral Hygiene
Keeping your mouth clean is essential to prevent infection and promote healing. After every meal or snack, rinse thoroughly with warm water. A curved-tip syringe is helpful for reaching areas around the wires. Brush your teeth gently after meals and before bed using a soft-bristled, child-sized toothbrush. Use your prescribed chlorhexidine mouth rinse or Listerine® twice daily. While you will not be able to brush the back your teeth directly, you can clean them by pressing your tongue firmly against them while swishing your mouth rinse.
Skin Incision Care
If an external incision was made, keep it covered with a dressing as instructed. Once sutures have been removed, clean the area gently twice daily and apply a topical antibiotic ointment.
Coughing, Sneezing, and Yawning
Support your chin with your hand whenever you feel the urge to cough, sneeze, or yawn to prevent inadvertently forcing your jaws open.
Fracture and Jaw Surgery Results
Successful healing from jaw surgery depends on strict adherence to these post-operative instructions, consistent follow-up care, and protecting the surgical site from disruption. Frequent office visits and post-operative imaging may be necessary to confirm that the bones are healing in proper alignment. Please attend all scheduled appointments.
With proper care, most patients experience a full and satisfying recovery with restoration of normal jaw function and facial aesthetics. Our team at Daraei Facial Plastic Surgery is dedicated to supporting you through every stage of your healing process.
If you have any questions or concerns at any time, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office.
Paul Daraei, MD
Dr. Paul Daraei is deeply committed to excellence and patient-centered care. As a Double Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon, he specializes in all surgical and non-surgical procedures of the head and neck. Dr. Daraei completed a rigorous head and neck surgical program, followed by a fellowship dedicated solely to cosmetic facial plastic surgery. He has worked with prestigious and elite surgeons nationally and internationally to provide comprehensive and state-of-the-art care for his patients in the Atlanta area.
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Dr. Paul Daraei is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon recognized for his exceptional skill, academic excellence, and leadership in the field of facial aesthetics. With advanced fellowship training and thousands of surgical cases completed at Emory University, he combines technical precision with an artist’s eye for natural results. As an affiliate professor and published author in leading medical journals, Dr. Daraei continues to advance the field through teaching, research, and innovation. His commitment to excellence and patient-centered care has established him as one of Atlanta’s most trusted authorities in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.
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