Nutritional Guidelines After Orthognathic Surgery

Liquid Diet (First 7 Days) – First Steps After Jaw Surgery

Only liquid foods should be consumed during the first week after jaw surgery. Nutritionally nutritious and easily digestible liquids should be preferred during this period.

Recommended Foods to Consume:

• Protein-rich smoothies

• Strained soups (chicken broth, vegetable soup)

• Milk and kefir

• Freshly squeezed fruit juices (non-acidic)

• Nutritional fortified beverages (as directed by a doctor)

Foods to Avoid:

• Acidic and spicy drinks

• Drinks that are too hot or too cold.

• Carbonated drinks

2. Pureed Diet (7-14 Days) – Smooth Transition After Jaw Surgery

From the second week onwards, you can transition from liquid to pureed foods. Foods that are soft, easy to swallow, and do not contain solid particles should be preferred.

Recommended Foods to Consume:

• Yogurt and probiotic yogurts

• Pureed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, zucchini)

• Banana and avocado puree

• Well-boiled and mashed oatmeal porridge

Foods to Avoid:

• Hard and shelled fruits and vegetables

• Nuts and seeds

• Very spicy and acidic foods

3. Soft Feeding (2-6 Weeks) – Mid-Term Post-Maxillofacial Surgery Period

After completing the first two weeks, patients can gradually transition to softer, solid foods. However, hard foods requiring chewing should be avoided.

Recommended Foods to Consume:

• Boiled eggs and omelet

• Cheese and dairy products

• Well-boiled vegetables and pasta

• Cooked soft fruits

• Ground or shredded chicken

Foods to Avoid:

• Raw vegetables and firm fruits

• Crackers, chips, and hard breads

• Sugary and sticky foods

4. Transitioning to Normal Diet (After 6 Weeks) – Full Recovery After Jaw Surgery

Six weeks after surgery, a gradual return to normal eating is possible with the doctor's approval. However, excessively hard and sticky foods should still be avoided, and the doctor's advice should be followed.

Points to Note:

• To increase chewing power, take small bites.

• Food should be eaten slowly and chewed thoroughly.

• The jaw should not be strained.

Conclusion

Nutrition after jaw surgery is crucial for a smooth recovery process. You should adhere to the nutritional plan recommended by your doctor after surgery and gradually introduce foods that require chewing.