Upper jaw loose 4 months post-op

[Screwloose]

Short version:

I had double jaw surgery and genioplasty in early December. I noticed a few weeks ago that my entire upper jaw was moving up and down when I would bite down. Looking in the mirror revealed it was shifting up and down by a few millimeters. The oddest part is the pressure I feel when I bite down. I can literally feel the two separate pieces of my upper jaw and skull hitting into each other.

Returned to surgeon this past Monday and they scheduled the following procedure this Tuesday: “hardware removal and debridement of the maxilla, application of new plates and screws, bone graft”

Seeking anyone whose been in a similar situation for reassurance and good vibes! Thanks.

[kplatt2010]

Hi There- I'm so sorry you have to go through this. I have been fortunate that I have not had to return to the OR for this particular reason. I was having serious popping issues immediately after surgery; to the point where the surgeon was able to hear it a week post-op. When it happens, it feels like someone is pulling back on a rubber band and letting go on your face. I distinctly remember the surgeon hearing the sound and saying "We'll that's not good"...At the time; he considered banding me closed for six weeks. We both decided not to go that route. In hindsight; I wonder if we should have done it? I say this because we are now monitoring one of the screws as it is not making full contact with bone. This meant modifications for the first six months.

In my case; I was on a liquid diet for a prolonged period of time. It was six months before I started to eat food where there was moderate chewing involved and it was challenging once I started. The popping eventually subsided but still will occur every once in awhile. I monitor for signs and symptoms for hardware that is coming out and I will need yearly pano's for at least five years is what I'm told.

I would expect in your case that your surgeon will band you shut for six weeks. This will be challenging for eating and speaking but you got to do what you got to do to make sure things heal properly. In my case I did lose a few pounds but that's about it as I do love my foodie . My foodie consisted of smoothies, creamy soups, and baby food for snacks. The smoothies can be calorie dense by mixing a Boost plus + protein powder + frozen fruit + ice + milk. I know some folks were doing oatmeal and eggs but that was too much chewing in my case.

In regards to speaking; I pushed it way too soon. Meaning I was back on the job and had speaking engagements at ~4 weeks. That was a really dumb move on my part as I remember having some pretty painful days every time I did it. Depending on your type of job; talking may or may not be an issue.

You have a challenge ahead but remember the toughest part will be ~six weeks post. Just remember to take it slow after that. Best of luck.
Karla

[Screwloose]

Had my surgery this morning.

Somehow, fractures formed on both plates. They replaced with heavy duty plates so hopefully I don’t have to do this again.

So now I’m back to numb face and liquid diet.

[Jfullflow10]

I had to have the revision as well 6 weeks post original double jaw surgery. It really stinks BUT the recovery was so much easier for the revision. Liquid diet was really hard to go back to for another 4-6 weeks but other than that, the swelling and pain were going within a few days. My bones were still pretty soft though since I was only 6 weeks out, I don't know how that will compare to 4 months out. I hope recovery goes smoothly!

[icthedral]

this same thing happened to me!! I had to do a revision at 6 months but they did not do a bone graft like they did for you. I wish he had I now have to have a third surgery a year and a half later because the looseness came back. this time he is doing a bone graft. it sounds like yours will work out much more smoothly . I hope you feel better soon.

[Luciangreuceanu]

After 3 years i had my revision surgery this Wednesday, but now they will redo me tomorrow only on bottom part. I have to deal with this...