Orthognathic surgeryThe subsequent recovery period accompanied by swelling is often unbearable and causes some inconvenience to daily life.
However,The swelling can be reduced by more than just waiting! Understanding the scientific and accelerated recovery methods for orthodontic swelling reduction can make recovery more efficient and quickly restore your confidence and beauty.
This article will go throughFenghua United Clinic, we will take you to explore in depth the key secrets to reducing swelling after orthognathic surgery, so that you can say goodbye to your swollen face and move towards a new life!
Why does swelling occur after orthognathic surgery?

Orthognathic surgeryPostoperative swelling is the body's natural repair response and is a common physiological phenomenon after surgery.
The following are the causes of swelling:
Inflammation: A natural response to surgery
During orthognathic surgery,Bone and soft tissue are cut or adjusted, which stimulates local cells and blood vessels, leading to inflammatory reactions.
In order to repair damaged tissues, the body releases a variety of inflammatory factors, such as histamine and cytokines, which further cause vasodilation and tissue fluid infiltration to form swelling.
Blood seepage and blood accumulation
During surgery, blood vessels are inevitably affected, causing blood to leak into surrounding tissues.
TheseIt takes time for the blood and blood stasis to be absorbed by the body.,thereforeSwelling and local redness may be seen in the early stages.
Obstruction of lymphatic circulation
The lymphatic system is responsible for removing excess tissue fluid from the body.After surgery, the lymphatic vessels may be temporarily compressed or damaged, causing lymph fluid to accumulate and increase swelling..
It takes time for the lymphatic system to recover, so it usually takes several weeks for the swelling to subside significantly after surgery.
Effect of gravity: the phenomenon of sagging and swelling
Swelling of the face after surgerySusceptible to the effects of gravity, especially in the morning when getting up, facial swelling may be more obvious.
This is because during sleep, body fluids accumulate downward due to gravity, causing swelling to be concentrated in the lower part of the face.
Personal physique and recovery ability
Each person's physical condition,Different blood circulation and metabolic capacity will affect the severity and duration of swelling.
For example, swelling may last longer in people with a slower metabolism or poorer circulation.
Swelling is inevitable, but understanding its causes can help patients deal with it correctly and take appropriate swelling-reducing measures to speed up recovery and reduce the impact on daily life.
You haveJaw straightening and swelling reductionAny questions about this?
Learn more about Fenghua Joint ClinicOrthognathic surgeryThe process, as well as the post-operative care!
An accelerator for reducing jaw swelling!
The speed of swelling reduction after surgery is not only related to the body's natural recovery ability, but can also be further accelerated through correct care methods.
This chapter introduces you to several effective ways to speed up swelling reduction and help recovery easier.
When to use ice and warm compresses
IceandWarm compressIt is a common postoperative care method, but it needs to be used correctly according to the time point:
- The effect of ice compress:
- Usually applicable toWithin 48 hours after surgery, helping to reduce vasodilation and tissue fluid infiltration, effectively controlling swelling and pain.
- How to use: Wrap the ice pack in a towel or gauze to avoid direct contact with the skin. Apply for 10-15 minutes each time and repeat every 1 hour.
- Precautions: Avoid excessive ice application to avoid frostbite, especially for patients with sensitive skin.
- The effect of warm compress:
- generallyStarting on the 3rd day after surgeryWarm compress can help promote blood circulation, accelerate tissue repair and eliminate blood stasis.
- How to use: Apply a warm towel or warm compress bag to the swollen area for 15-20 minutes each time. It is recommended to do it 4-5 times a day, and do not exceed 5 times.
- Precautions: Make sure the temperature is slightly higher than body temperature to avoid scalding the skin.
Moderate exercise: promote blood circulation
It is recommended to start exercising in the second week after surgery. Appropriate exercise can help the body restore normal circulation and speed up metabolism.
- walk: Take 20-30 minutes of slow walking every day to improve blood circulation throughout the body and reduce local swelling.
- Simple stretching exercises: Allows you to move your neck and shoulders within a comfortable range to aid lymphatic drainage.
- Deep breathing exercises: Promote oxygen exchange and circulation metabolism through deep breathing, and accelerate the recovery process.
Hyperbaric oxygen chamber therapy: reducing inflammation and metabolizing toxic substances
After orthognathic surgery, a hyperbaric oxygen chamber can be used to increase the oxygen content in the plasma.Provide more oxygen for tissues and cells,Improve immunity and metabolism, increase local blood circulation and promote wound repair.
Through a combination of ice compresses, warm compresses, and auxiliary treatments, the swelling reduction process after surgery will be greatly accelerated, helping you to restore your natural appearance as soon as possible!
You haveJaw straightening and swelling reductionAny questions about this?
Learn more about Fenghua Joint ClinicOrthognathic surgeryThe process, as well as the post-operative care!
Orthognathic swelling reduction Dcard, PTT FAQs
Many patients who have undergone orthognathic surgery will share their experiences and ask questions on online forums such as Dcard and PTT. The following is a summary and answer of several popular topics to provide accurate information to help patients resolve their doubts.
Will orthodontic surgery leave scars?
Orthognathic surgery is usually performed inside the mouth, so there will be no obvious wounds on the outside, and most patients will not be left with scars after the surgery. However, the following points should be noted to avoid the impact of internal scarring:
- Postoperative Care: Keep your mouth clean and rinse with saline or medical mouthwash after each meal to avoid infection and scar growth.
- Follow your doctor's instructions: Avoid chewing hard foods or exerting excessive force too soon after surgery to avoid affecting the healing process.
How long will the effect of jaw swelling reduction last?
The duration of swelling after orthognathic surgery varies depending on individual constitution, the extent of surgery, and postoperative care, and can be roughly divided into the following stages:
- Acute phase (1-2 weeks): Swelling is the most obvious, which may be accompanied by local stiffness or slight pain.
- Remission period (weeks 3-4): The swelling began to subside significantly and the face shape gradually returned to its natural state.
- Stable period (1-6 months): Deep tissue repair, swelling is largely eliminated, but minor changes may still persist.
If the swelling lasts too long or there are abnormal symptoms (such as local redness, heat, and persistent pain), it is recommended to consult a doctor immediately to confirm the recovery status.
How to prevent postoperative infection?
Postoperative infection may affect wound healing and swelling reduction. The following measures should be taken to prevent it:
- Maintain oral hygiene: Use mouthwash (alcohol-free) regularly to clean the wound to prevent bacterial growth. Clean your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoiding touching the surgical area.
- Avoid contact with contamination: Avoid touching the surgical area or wound with your hands after surgery to prevent bacterial invasion.
- Take medicine on time: Take medicine on time according to the doctor's instructions.
- Balanced diet and rest: Eat more foods containing vitamins to enhance immunity. Get enough sleep to give your body enough time to repair itself.
The above measures can effectively reduce the risk of infection and help postoperative recovery go more smoothly. If you find any abnormalities, be sure to seek medical attention immediately.