How to Prepare for Orthognathic Surgery

Orthognathic surgery is a corrective jaw surgery that is provided to reshape the jaws and thereby bring about improvement in both form and function. Before the surgery you will have to work with an orthodontist to position your teeth correctly with the help of braces. Usually, the braces will have to be worn for a period of 8 to 16 months. When the teeth are properly aligned, you will be advised to undergo orthognathic reconstructive surgery. Pre-surgery Consultation to Discuss the Jaw Reconstructive Surgery During the pre-surgery consultation, your oral and maxillofacial surgeon will review your progress. He will draw up a plan for surgical treatment and discuss important aspects such as the details regarding the surgery, hospital stay and the recovery period. As a patient, you should feel free to discuss all your concerns during this meeting. Provide your surgeon all details regarding the medications you are taking and allergies, since these are factors that may have an impact on the surgery. The plastic surgeon may also request you to undergo blood tests, chest x-ray and other examination to ensure that you are healthy enough to undergo orthognathic surgery. You will also be examined by an anesthesiologist who will discuss details regarding anesthesia with you. Tips to Make Your Treatment and Recovery Easier • Quit smoking if you have this habit. Smoking can increase the risk of surgical complications and also prolong the healing period. You also run the risk of developing gum disease. • Consume liquid foods such as milk, soup and total-nutrition drinks more on the days just before your surgery. • It is best not to eat or drink for a minimum of eight hours before the surgery. • Make arrangements for someone to take you home and stay with you after the surgery. • Check with the surgeon whether you can take your regular medications on the day of the surgery. • Find out from the surgeon what you can eat, and how you can stay comfortable after the surgery. Make it a point to learn more about the actual recovery period. An Experienced Plastic Surgeon Can Ensure the Best Outcomes Orthognathic surgery provided by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon can ensure the best outcomes, both aesthetic and functional. Ideally, he/she should be offering services from an AAAASF accredited plastic surgery center. Your surgeon would provide you with all details regarding treatment, recovery as well as the risks involved before you go ahead with the surgery. A reliable plastic surgeon will prepare you well for your orthognathic surgery so that you can have a safe and comfortable surgical experience.