How Long Does It Take to Look Normal After Jaw Surgery?

Posted on 1/15/2024 by Weo Admin

Woman speaking with dentist about jaw at Pacific Oral & Facial Surgery Center in Livermore, CA

After jaw surgery, you will have some swelling, but the result is a corrected bite and reduced pain if the intention was to correct an overbite, underbite, or TMJ symptoms. While others will recognize improvement in your appearance, it is normal to feel the distortion on your face due to swelling. Here, we will discuss how long it will take to look and feel normal again after jaw surgery.

The First Three Days

Immediately after surgery and up to three days later, your face will swell to its peak, and this can make you regret your decision. However, this stage is short-lived, and the swelling will go down. Instead, consider distractive activities during this period to shift your mind off the bulge.

Up to Three Weeks

The swelling will subside by week three, and your surgery results will be more visible. While you may feel the surgery is noticeable from a mile away, the people close to you are the only ones who will spot the changes, if any.

One to Three Months

Most of the swelling will disappear during this phase, but you may look like a puffed version of yourself. Most patients visualize this as their final result and will be discontented, but you should be patient as you have yet to see your final results.

Three to Six Months

By the third to six months, you are almost gaining full recovery, and you can eat any food. Also, you will be at peace with what you see in the mirror. There may still be some minimal swelling.

Six Months to One Year

Most patients admit their jaw surgery decision was ideal and are satisfied with the results at this stage. Your face will regain shape, and all the swelling will have faded, allowing you to see the outcome of the surgery.

Now that you know what to expect after jaw surgery, it is time to contact your oral and maxillofacial surgeon to start the process. For more details on the aftermath of jaw surgery, contact our office today.

Board certified in Oral & Maxillofacial surgery

The surgical specialty of oral and maxillofacial surgery requires up to six additional years of hospital based surgical and anesthesia training beyond dental school.

Contact Pacific Oral and Facial Surgery Center Today!

The first step to a healthier, happier you.

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Monday-Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday 7:00 am - 1:00 pm

Livermore

1133 E. Stanley Blvd. #215 • Livermore, CA 94550
Phone: 925-290-7727 Fax: 925-294-8800
Email: info@pacificofs.com

Tracy

2160 W. Grant Line Road #160 • Tracy, CA 95377
Phone: 209-835-4600 • Fax: 209-835-8833
Email: info@pacificofs.com

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Dental Blog | Livermore & Tracy CA | Michael Beckley DDS
For more information on oral surgery, and to schedule your consultation, call Pacific Oral & Facial Surgery Center in Livermore and Tracy today.
Pacific Oral and Facial Surgery Center, 1133 E Stanley Blvd #215, Livermore, CA 94550; 925-290-7727; pacificofs.com; 9/4/2024; Associated Words: oral surgeon Livermore;