Jaw surgery recovery typically takes between 6 to 12 weeks for the initial healing phase, and full recovery can take up to 12 months. Most patients return to work or school within 2 to 4 weeks, but the jaw continues healing and regaining strength over several months.
Jaw surgery is a big decision. Whether you’re undergoing the procedure to correct a bite issue, realign your jaw, or improve your facial symmetry, recovery is a key part of the journey. At Riverside Orthodontics in Riverside, Connecticut, patients receive expert guidance before, during, and after treatment to ensure a smooth healing process. We provide services such as adult treatment in Riverside, CT and early-treatment in Riverside, CT for individuals considering jaw surgery.
What to Expect in the First Two Weeks
The first two weeks after jaw surgery are the most intense. During this period, swelling, bruising, and discomfort are most noticeable. You’ll need plenty of rest and care.
In the first 14 days, you can expect:
- Swelling to peak around day 3 to 5, then slowly go down
- Bruising along the cheeks, chin, and possibly under the eyes
- Soreness or stiffness in the jaw area
- A soft or liquid-only diet
- Fatigue or low energy due to healing and reduced food intake
It’s important to keep your head elevated while resting and to apply ice packs during the first 48 hours to reduce swelling. Patients often feel the emotional effects of surgery during this time, which is completely normal.
Healing from Weeks 2 to 6
After the initial two weeks, swelling continues to go down, and you’ll likely regain some energy. You may also begin eating soft foods depending on your surgeon’s instructions.
During this phase, most people:
- Return to work or school after 2 to 4 weeks
- Begin gentle jaw stretches or exercises to regain mobility
- Transition from liquid to soft foods like scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and oatmeal
- Use rubber bands or elastics to guide jaw movement
- Attend follow-up visits with their orthodontist and surgeon
Light activity, such as walking, is encouraged. However, heavy lifting or intense exercise should be avoided until cleared by your doctor.
Months Two to Three: Stronger and More Independent
At this stage, you will likely feel much more normal, although healing is still ongoing. While swelling continues to fade, it may still be slightly noticeable.
By this point:
- Most patients are off pain medications
- Diet gradually expands to include more solid foods
- Jaw function improves with daily use and exercises
- Swelling becomes less visible and may only linger slightly in the cheeks or jawline
This is also the time when post-surgical orthodontic treatment often resumes or begins, depending on the original plan.
Long-Term Recovery: Months Three to Twelve
Although the early recovery stages happen relatively quickly, the jaw bones and tissues continue adjusting over several months. Full recovery may take up to a year.
Over this long-term period:
- Jaw bone strengthens and solidifies in its new position
- Patients regain full jaw mobility and function
- Most visible swelling is gone
- Orthodontic treatment continues to fine-tune bite alignment
- You resume normal eating habits and routines
Every patient’s healing journey is unique, but most people are able to return to normal life within a few months, even though internal healing continues for a full year.
What Affects Jaw Surgery Recovery Time?
Your personal healing timeline can vary based on a number of factors. Understanding what influences recovery can help set realistic expectations.
Factors that impact jaw surgery recovery:
- The complexity of the surgery (single jaw vs. double jaw)
- Whether wires, plates, or elastics were used
- Age and general health
- Commitment to post-op care instructions
- Smoking, poor nutrition, or health conditions like diabetes
- Pre-existing oral health issues
Good communication with your care team and following instructions can lead to faster, more successful healing. That’s why adult treatment in Riverside, CT and Early treatment in Riverside, CT, are always planned with customized care at Riverside Orthodontics.
Helpful Recovery Tips for Patients
Healing from jaw surgery requires patience, but there are many ways to support your body during the process. Here are a few practical tips to make recovery smoother:
- Stay hydrated by drinking water, broths, and low-sugar drinks
- Use ice packs for the first 48 hours to manage swelling
- Sleep with your head elevated for at least one week
- Eat nutrient-rich liquid or soft foods like smoothies, blended soups, and mashed fruits
- Avoid chewing or talking excessively in the early days
- Brush gently using a small toothbrush and follow your surgeon’s hygiene instructions
- Attend all scheduled checkups with your orthodontist and surgeon
It’s common to feel emotional or frustrated during the first few weeks, especially when your diet and speech are limited. But each week brings noticeable improvement.
Post-Surgical Orthodontic Care at Riverside Orthodontics
At Riverside Orthodontics, we offer comprehensive care for patients who need orthodontic treatment before and after jaw surgery. We partner with oral surgeons and monitor healing closely to make sure each patient gets the best outcome.
Two key services available include:
- Adult Orthodontics and Surgical Cases in Riverside, CT: This service supports adults with complex bite issues that may require jaw surgery. We provide personalized planning, coordinate with surgeons, and offer modern treatment options for long-term results.
- Clear Aligners (Invisalign and Spark) in Greenwich and Stamford: Many patients continue their treatment using Invisalign or Spark aligners after jaw surgery. These clear trays help complete alignment without using metal brackets and are available in multiple Connecticut locations.
Contact Us
If you’re thinking about jaw surgery or looking for a trusted orthodontist to guide your recovery, Riverside Orthodontics is here to help. We proudly serve patients in Riverside, Greenwich, Stamford, and the surrounding areas.
Get in touch today:
- Visit us: 1171 E. Putnam Avenue, Building 2, Riverside, CT 06878
- Cal usl: (203) 698‑0045
- Website: riversideortho.net
Our team is happy to answer your questions, provide a consultation, or review your treatment options. You can also Book an Appointment directly through our website.
FAQs About Jaw Surgery Recovery Time
How long does jaw surgery recovery take?
Initial healing takes 6 to 12 weeks, while full recovery can take up to one year depending on the procedure and individual healing rate.
Can I go back to work two weeks after jaw surgery?
Yes, many people return to work or school after 2 to 4 weeks, especially if their job is not physically demanding.
What foods can I eat during recovery?
During the first few weeks, you should eat soft or liquid foods such as smoothies, soups, mashed potatoes, and yogurt.
Does jaw surgery recovery hurt?
Some discomfort, swelling, and bruising are expected, but pain is usually manageable with medication and decreases after the first week.
Will I need braces after jaw surgery?
Yes, most patients continue with braces or clear aligners after jaw surgery to complete bite alignment and maintain results.
