Jaw Surgery Recovery UK: The Orthognathic Surgery Timeline

How long does a jaw surgery hospital stay last?

Most patients stay in hospital for one to three nights after orthognathic jaw surgery, depending on which jaw was moved, how much swelling develops, how well pain is controlled, and how confidently the patient can drink fluids. Before discharge, the surgical team checks the bite position against the planned outcome, monitors for bleeding, tests sensation around the lips and chin, and confirms early healing is progressing as expected.

What happens in the first two weeks after jaw surgery?

Swelling typically peaks within the first two to three days and then gradually subsides over the following two weeks, though some residual puffiness can persist longer. A liquid or very soft diet is standard during this period because chewing is difficult and the surgical sites need protection. Guiding elastics are commonly placed on the braces to help settle the bite into its new position, though the exact protocol varies between surgeons and the type of procedure performed.

How does the diet progress after jaw surgery?

Diet generally moves through stages: liquids only in the first few days, then pureed and blended foods for one to two weeks, then soft foods that need minimal chewing, and finally a gradual return to normal chewing once the surgical and orthodontic team confirms healing allows it. Maintaining adequate nutrition and hydration through this period matters because temporary weight loss and fatigue are common while eating is restricted.

Do braces stay on after jaw surgery, and what do they do?

Most patients still have fixed braces in place after jaw surgery, and elastics are used to guide the bite into its final position while the bones heal around the new alignment. It is important not to change the elastic wear pattern on your own — any adjustment to which elastics are worn and how often should come directly from the surgical or orthodontic team, since the pattern is chosen to protect the surgical result.

When can I return to work, study or sport after jaw surgery?

Desk-based work or study can often resume within a few weeks for many patients, once swelling has reduced enough for comfort and confidence. Physical jobs, contact sports, and heavy lifting typically require a longer break, often six to eight weeks or more, and should only resume once the surgical team has confirmed it is safe based on how the bones are healing.

How long does full healing take after orthognathic surgery?

Numbness around the lips, chin or cheeks, along with residual stiffness and mild swelling, can take several months to fully settle as nerves recover and tissues remodel. Orthodontic finishing — fine adjustments to tooth position and bite — continues after surgery for a period before the braces are removed and retainers are fitted to hold the final result.

Useful related pages

This guide is for general information only. It is not a diagnosis, treatment plan, or substitute for advice from a registered dentist or orthodontist.