MY questions
I have had a lot of questions about my operation, how I would feel after and so forth. These I therefore gathered together and asked my surgeon about to feel as secure and well informed as possible. I just got home from my first post operation checkup (I wrote more about that in the post before this one) and decided that it may be of interest for you to know the questions and the answers I got. However it is important to remember that these answers are pertaining to my case and may differentiate depending on what kind of operation you are going through and in which country the surgery is taking place.
First let us start with my pre operation questions:
Q: How long do I have to stay in the hospital after the surgery?
A: Usually one or two days after the operation.
Q: Will I be able to go through metal scanners after the surgery? (I thought I knew the answer to this already but I wanted to be sure.)
A: Yes, the screws that are placed in the jaw during the surgery will not set of a metal detector.
Q: How many rubber bands will I have in my mouth after the operation and how long do I need them?
A: Six rubber bands for six weeks.
Q: Will I be able to move my jaw after the surgery or will it be fixed shut?
A: The first week it will be free without restrictions and then the jaw will be fixed in place with rubber bands.
Q: Is everything that will keep my jaw fixed in the right position going to be inside my mouth?
A: Yes
Q: When will I look “normal” to someone that does not know me? (AKA when will the swelling be gone.)
A: The swelling will be the worst 2-3 days after the surgery and 90% of it will be gone after two weeks. However some will still be there until six months after the surgery.
Now for my post operation questions:
Q: When is it okay to start to brush my teeth as usual?
A: The teeth are fine to start brushing as normal right away but be careful with the gums and make sure not to disturb the
Q: Is it okay to drink hot beverages?
A: Yes, it is.
Q: What kind of screws do I have in my jaw?
A: See x-ray picture in the post that was posted before this one.
Q: How long should I continue to take painkillers?
A: As long as you see fit.
I hope that was helpful in some way! Bye :)