Rehabilitation after a bimaxillary osteotomy

A bimaxillary osteotomy is a surgery in which both the upper jaw (maxilla) and the lower jaw (mandible) are surgically moved to improve the bite, function, and often the facial profile.

During this procedure, the jaw bones are carefully cut, positioned correctly, and secured with small plates and screws. It is a precise and well-planned procedure, but it remains a surgery where bone, muscles, nerves, and connective tissue are involved.

It may also be that only a correction occurs in the lower jaw.

What does this mean for your recovery?

After the surgery, your body must:

• allow the bone to heal

• reduce swelling

• relearn muscle cooperation

• restore sensation and control

• rebuild your mouth opening

Bone healing takes longer than muscle recovery.

Therefore, a bimaxillary osteotomy requires patience and a phased approach.

The first weeks are focused on rest and protection.

Then follows a period in which you gradually rebuild mobility and function.

What can you expect?

It is normal that you:

• have noticeable swelling in the first weeks

• temporarily experience less sensation in your lip or chin

• feel stiffness when opening

• are fatigued

• need to get used to your new bite

These reactions are part of the recovery process.

Why is rehabilitation important?

The surgery corrects the position of your jaws.

Rehabilitation ensures that:

• your muscles adapt to the new position

• your joints remain flexible

• your bite becomes stable

• you prevent relapse or overexertion

Good guidance helps to integrate your new jaw position optimally, both aesthetically and functionally.

Important to remember

Recovery is not a straight line.

Some days go better than others.

Rest, gradual buildup, and listening to your body are more important than speed.

This course guides you step by step through the recovery process, so you can safely and sustainably return to normal function.

Red flags and contraindications

Always contact your doctor if you:

• have fever, severe swelling, or redness

• experience increasing pain despite therapy

• have problems swallowing or breathing

• have symptoms that do not improve within 2–3 weeks

When to progress to heavier exercises?

A safe progression follows the pain threshold and functional recovery markers:

• Mouth opening without sharp pain

• No increase in swelling after exercise sessions

• Better chewing control

• Complete healing of the puncture areas

  Only then can you gradually intensify daily exercises.