Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon Questions Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

When can you speak after jaw surgery?

I will have jaw surgery. When can you speak after jaw surgery?

3 Answers

typically right away. unless your jaw needs to be wired shut
Healing from jaw surgery can take anywhere from six weeks to 12 weeks, depending upon the procedure.
Most patients can expect to return to school or work within 10-14 days after jaw surgery. Facial swelling will probably be considerably reduced by three weeks after surgery. However, complete jaw healing can take between nine and 12 months.
Good evening. You don't specify the type of jaw surgery and there are just too many variables to give you an exact answer to this question. My own daughter had jaw surgery decades ago and she had limited opening for about a month. They were "wired" with elastics so they could be removed in an emergency but she was able to eat soft foods and speak ok. BTW, she lost about 20 lbs in that month! I wouldn't recommend this for weight loss but it's a side effect nevertheless unless you drink food supplements. Again, talk to your physician or dental specialist about your concerns.