Before the procedure

You usually start with a consultation. This is a talk with the surgeon. The surgeon explains the problem, the choices, and what each choice involves. This is the time to ask your questions. Bring a list.

  • You may have X-rays and a CT scanA detailed type of X-ray. It builds a 3D picture of the bones from many thin images.. These let the team plan with care.
  • For a complex case, the team can make a 3D model from the CT scan. They use it to plan the exact moves before the day of surgery.
  • The team tells you how to prepare. For example, you may need to stop eating for a set time before an anaesthetic.
  • Planned jaw surgery often needs braces first and several months of preparation.

During the procedure

The type of anaestheticMedicine that stops you feeling pain during the procedure. depends on the operation. With a local anaesthetic you are numb but awake. With sedation you feel calm and sleepy. With a general anaesthetic you are fully asleep.

On the day, the team usually follows these steps:

  • The team checks you in. They confirm the plan and the site of surgery with you.
  • The anaesthetic team keeps you comfortable. They watch your heart rate, your breathing, and your oxygen for the whole procedure.
  • The surgeon uses the CT scan and the plan to guide the repair.
  • The surgeon makes hidden cuts where possible, inside the mouth or in natural skin lines.
  • The surgeon moves the bones into the correct position.
  • Small titanium platesSmall, strong metal plates. They hold the bone in place while it heals, and usually stay in for life. and screws hold the bones while they heal.
  • The team closes the cuts with fine stitches.

The time depends on the operation. A small repair can take less than an hour. A complex repair can take several hours. After surgery, you rest in a recovery area while the anaesthetic wears off.

You will not feel the surgery. During the procedure, the team keeps you safe, comfortable, and unaware of it.

After the procedure

The first days are usually the hardest. Then you get better step by step.

  • Swelling and bruising are usually worst after two or three days. Then they go down over several weeks.
  • You often eat soft food or liquids for a time after jaw or mouth surgery.
  • Some parts can feel numb. This usually gets better with time.
  • You get clear aftercare instructions and follow-up appointments. At a follow-up, the team checks the healing, sometimes with another X-ray or CT scan.

The final result is how things look and feel. It often gets better for several months, while everything heals.

This is general information. It is not medical advice. Always follow the instructions from your own surgeon first.