Maxillo-Facial Surgery Institute Irvine
17877 Von Karman Avenue, Suite 370 | Irvine, CA 92614 | Phone: (949) 818-3223 | msi-i.com
Oral and maxillofacial surgery can significantly improve your oral health, appearance, and quality of life—but like any surgery, proper post-operative care is essential for optimal healing and outcomes. Whether you’re undergoing wisdom tooth extraction, corrective jaw surgery, or dental implant placement, understanding what to expect during recovery can help reduce complications and enhance comfort.
At Maxillo-Facial Surgery Institute Irvine, our goal is to provide every patient with not just exceptional surgical care but also the education and support needed for a smooth and successful recovery. Here’s what you need to know after your oral and maxillofacial procedure.
What Happens Right After Surgery?
Following your procedure, you will be monitored as the effects of anesthesia wear off. You may feel drowsy, disoriented, or slightly nauseated—these are all normal responses to anesthesia and should subside within a few hours.
Common Immediate Post-Operative Symptoms:
- Swelling in the face or jaw
- Mild to moderate pain or discomfort
- Minor bleeding or oozing from the surgical site
- Stiffness or limited jaw movement
- Difficulty eating or speaking
These symptoms typically peak within the first 48 hours and gradually improve over the following days.
Key Recovery Tips for Optimal Healing
1. Manage Swelling and Pain
- Apply ice packs to the outside of your face for the first 24–48 hours. Alternate 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off.
- Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications exactly as directed.
- After 48 hours, switch to warm compresses to promote circulation and reduce stiffness.
2. Control Bleeding
- Bite gently on a gauze pad for 30–60 minutes post-surgery. Replace as needed.
- If bleeding persists, try using a moistened tea bag (the tannic acid can help constrict blood vessels).
- Avoid spitting, rinsing, or drinking through a straw for the first 24 hours to prevent dislodging the blood clot.
3. Follow a Soft Food Diet
- Stick to soft, cool or room-temperature foods like yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, applesauce, and scrambled eggs.
- Avoid crunchy, spicy, hot, or chewy foods until healing is well underway.
- Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid alcohol and caffeine in the early days of recovery.
4. Keep the Area Clean
- Do not brush near the surgical site for the first 24 hours.
- After 24 hours, gently rinse with a saltwater solution (1/2 tsp salt in 8 oz warm water) several times a day, especially after meals.
- Avoid mouthwash with alcohol, as it can irritate healing tissues.
5. Rest and Elevate Your Head
- Limit physical activity for at least 48–72 hours to reduce swelling and risk of bleeding.
- Sleep with your head elevated using an extra pillow or by sleeping in a recliner to minimize swelling.
6. Take All Medications as Prescribed
- Complete your course of antibiotics to prevent infection.
- Use any oral rinses or topical medications as instructed by your surgeon.
When to Call Your Surgeon
Although mild discomfort and swelling are normal, contact Maxillo-Facial Surgery Institute Irvine immediately if you experience:
- Excessive bleeding that doesn’t stop with gauze and pressure
- Severe or worsening pain unrelieved by medication
- High fever (over 101°F)
- Signs of infection (pus, increased redness, foul odor)
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Numbness that persists or worsens
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long will it take to fully recover?
A: Recovery time varies depending on the procedure. Minor surgeries like simple extractions may take 3–5 days, while more complex procedures (like jaw surgery or implants) may require 1–2 weeks of downtime, with complete healing over several months.
Q: Can I brush my teeth after surgery?
A: Yes, but avoid the surgical area for the first 24 hours. After that, gently brush around the surgical site using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Saltwater rinses are also recommended to keep the mouth clean.
Q: When can I return to work or school?
A: Most patients can return to light activity within 2–3 days. For procedures involving general anesthesia or extensive work, a longer recovery period of up to a week may be needed.
Q: Is swelling normal, and how long does it last?
A: Yes. Swelling typically peaks at 48–72 hours and gradually decreases over the next few days. Using cold and then warm compresses can help minimize it.
Q: What should I do if I accidentally dislodge a blood clot (dry socket)?
A: Contact us immediately. A dry socket is a painful condition that may require additional treatment, such as medicated dressings to ease discomfort and promote healing.
Q: Can I smoke or vape after surgery?
A: No. Smoking or vaping significantly increases the risk of complications like dry socket and delayed healing. Avoid all nicotine products for at least 5–7 days post-op (or ideally longer).
Q: What if I’m on blood thinners or other medications?
A: Be sure to inform your surgeon of all medications you take before surgery. Some medications may require temporary adjustments, and we’ll provide personalized instructions to ensure your safety and recovery.
Trust Your Healing to Experts
At Maxillo-Facial Surgery Institute Irvine, your care doesn’t end after surgery. Our experienced surgical team is here to support your recovery every step of the way with personalized guidance and follow-up care. By following the recommended post-operative instructions, you can minimize discomfort, reduce your risk of complications, and enjoy a faster, smoother recovery.
Contact Us
Maxillo-Facial Surgery Institute Irvine
📍 17877 Von Karman Avenue, Suite 370, Irvine, CA 92614
📞 Phone: (949) 818-3223
🌐 Website: https://msi-i.com
Whether you’ve just had surgery or are planning a future procedure, feel free to contact us with any concerns or questions. Your comfort and well-being are always our top priorities.
