Double Jaw Surgery Recovery Period: How Long Does the Swelling Last?

Many patients consider double jaw surgery in the hopes of improving aesthetic or functional issues. The recovery period may be one reason some patients might be on the fence about whether or not to go through with their decision to undergo surgery. 




A question frequently asked by those who are considering double jaw surgery is "how long is the recovery period?" This encompasses the time it takes for you to return to normal daily activities, when you'll be able to apply cosmetics, when the swelling will dissipate, and when you will be able to eat. Today we will go over this question that so many people are curious about in the hopes that it will help with your plans. 





As you may already know, double jaw surgery entails cutting and repositioning the upper and lower jaw in a way that can improve your bite. Due to the fact that functionality is of utmost importance, we will do a detailed examination of your bite, bones, and soft tissue to accurately diagnose the severity of your symptoms before we plan for the surgery. 

Because your bones will be cut and reattached, there needs to be ample recovery time for your bones to securely heal in their new position.




Generally speaking, we will remove the stitches from surgery at the 2-week point, and you will be able to perform daily activities with ease starting at around the 1-month mark. However, the 1-month mark is far from being fully recovered. In order for the bones to be considered safely healed, it would take a minimum of 3 months. Similarly, the time it takes for residual swelling to dissipate takes an additional 3 months minimum. Some people may be under the impression that because the swelling takes longer than they anticipated to go down, their surgery went wrong.




But if you have done your research, you might have heard that the swelling from double jaw surgery can last over a year. We recommend doing plenty of research for double jaw surgery and going back to the hospital you did your surgery for regular checkups to put your concerns at ease. 



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