Jaw (orthognathic) surgery is a life-changing procedure, but the final result depends as much on how you recover as on the surgery itself. This week-by-week guide from Dr. Ricardo Mole, a DHA-licensed oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Dubai, explains what to expect after corrective jaw surgery so you can plan ahead and heal with confidence.
The First 24 to 48 Hours
Straight after surgery, expect swelling, numbness and a feeling of pressure around the jaw and lips rather than sharp pain. You will usually stay in hospital for one night so the team can monitor you and manage any discomfort. Ice packs, keeping your head elevated, and gentle rest are the priorities.
Week 1: Rest and Swelling
Swelling typically peaks around day two or three and then slowly begins to settle. This is the week to rest, stay on your prescribed medication, and keep up gentle mouth rinses. You will be on a liquid diet, and talking may feel tiring. Bruising is normal and fades over the following days.
Week 2: Turning a Corner
By the second week most patients feel noticeably better. Major swelling has eased and energy returns. Numbness in the lips and chin can linger, which is completely normal as the nerves recover gradually. Many patients return to desk-based work around two weeks, depending on how they feel.
Weeks 3 to 6: Back to Routine
Residual swelling continues to fade, your diet progresses from liquids to soft and blended foods, and light exercise such as walking is usually encouraged. Your surgeon will review your healing and bite at follow-up visits.
Months 2 to 6: Full Healing
Visible swelling is largely gone within about six weeks, but the bone continues to heal underneath for three to six months. By now you are eating a normal diet and seeing the final shape of your result settle in.
What You Can Eat
- Liquids (week 1): smooth soups, protein shakes, milk, juices and blended drinks.
- Soft & blended (weeks 2 to 4): mashed potato, scrambled eggs, yoghurt and soft fish.
- Firmer foods (from around week 6): gradually reintroduced as your surgeon confirms your bite has healed.
When to Call Your Surgeon
Contact your surgeon promptly if you experience a fever, worsening pain or swelling after it had improved, heavy bleeding, or difficulty breathing or swallowing.
This article is general information and not a substitute for personalised medical advice. If you are considering jaw surgery in Dubai, book a consultation with Dr. Ricardo Mole.
