Frequently Asked Questions

Jaw surgery is a complex procedure where outcomes depend heavily on the team’s training, surgical experience, and surgical volume. Surgeons with advanced, focused training and teams that perform these operations regularly tend to deliver more precise, consistent results. Multiple studies have shown that for complex surgeries, such as jaw surgery, experienced high-volume teams have lower complication rates and more predictable outcomes. 

In a private practice setting, care is typically more streamlined and consistent, with the same surgeon closely involved in planning, surgery, and follow-up.
In academic or hospital-based settings, care is often delivered by a larger team, which may include residents or fellows participating under supervision. Both models can provide excellent outcomes, but the structure of care can feel different. At our center, your care is designed to be consistent and coordinated, with direct surgeon involvement throughout the entire process.

It is important to understand who is performing each part of your procedure. In some settings, your surgeon performs all critical portions, while in others, trainees may assist or participate under supervision. This should be clearly discussed in advance. At our center, your surgeon performs all critical portions of the procedure.

Depending on the setting, residents, fellows, or students may be present. You should feel comfortable asking what their role is and how your care is supervised throughout the process.
At our center, there are no residents or fellows involved in performing your surgery.

Post-operative care is an important part of your outcome. In some practices, your surgeon personally manages follow-up visits and recovery, while in others, care may be shared with a team. Understanding who will be guiding your recovery helps ensure continuity and clear communication. At our center, your surgeon personally follows you throughout your recovery.

Comprehensive care includes direct involvement in planning, surgery, and post-operative management, helping maintain consistency from start to finish.
At our center, your surgeon is directly involved at every stage—from planning through surgery and recovery.

No. Incisions are typically made inside the mouth, so there are no visible external scars.

Most patients experience more discomfort than pain, especially during the first week. Symptoms are usually well controlled with standard medications.

In most modern cases, no. Plates and screws stabilize the jaws, often with light elastics rather than full immobilization.

Swelling peaks in the first few days, improves significantly within 1–2 weeks, and continues to resolve over several months.

Temporary numbness is common due to nerve proximity, with gradual improvement over time.

Nasal congestion is common early on due to swelling, but it typically improves significantly within the first week.

Yes, but in a natural and balanced way. The goal is improved facial harmony rather than an artificial or overdone appearance.

Yes. Small titanium plates and screws are designed to remain in place and are typically well tolerated, rarely requiring removal.

Most patients require orthodontic treatment before and after surgery to properly align the teeth and finalize the bite.

Most patients return within 1–2 weeks, depending on comfort and swelling. Many feel significantly better after the first week, though some visible swelling may remain.

You’ll begin with liquids and very soft foods, then gradually return to a more normal diet over several weeks as healing progresses.

Light activity can begin early, but full non-contact activity is usually resumed around 4–6 weeks. Contact sports require a longer recovery period.

Choose a time that allows 1–2 weeks of reduced activity, along with flexibility for early recovery and follow-up visits.

Most patients feel much better within a few weeks, but complete healing and final refinement take several months.

Short trips are usually appropriate after 1–2 weeks, once you are comfortable and early healing is stable.

Flying is typically safe after about 1–2 weeks, once swelling has begun to improve.

Most patients are cleared to travel home within 5 to 7 days after surgery, provided there are no complications. Your surgeon will confirm when it is safe for you to travel based on your recovery progress and the distance of your trip.