Plastic Surgery Instructions [Jaw Injury (Wired Jaw or Rubber Bands) Home Care Instructions]:
You have had your jaw wired or banded together to help your broken jawbone heal. Follow these instructions carefully so you heal properly. In case you vomit or have a coughing attack, you must know how to cut the wire or band that is keeping your jaws together.
Always keep wire cutters or scissors with you, at all times, so you can quickly each for them.
SEEK CARE IMMEDIATELY IF: YOU HAVE TROUBLE BREATHING OR HAVE TO CUT YOUR WIRE!
Mouth Care:
-Keep your mouth clean while your jaw is wired together. The wires in your mouth can irritate your gums so it is very important to keep your mouth clean.
-If your mouth is wired shut: brush your teeth at least 2-3 times a day. Use tooth paste each time you brush; the action of brushing is very important. The metal wires should remain sparkling clean.
-If you have rubber bands: a waterpik works better than tooth brushing because there is less risk of dislodging your rubber bands.
-Rinse your mouth with Peridex or mouthwash 3 or 4 times a day to keep this area clean.
Drinking and Activity:
-With your jaw wired, you can only drink. Drink high protein liquids to maintain your nutrition level. Some foods can be blended to a liquid form.
-Do not swim, or do any other vigorous activity, while your mouth is wired. This can cause strain on your wires and make it hard for you to breathe.
-Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen for at least 2 weeks following surgery, unless specifically instructed. This can lead to bleeding issues.
-Smoking causes multiple wound healing complications. It is very important that you do not smoke, and you are not around people that smoke for at least 6 weeks after surgery. Secondhand smoke is just as harmful as if you were to smoke.
Call the office immediately if you have:
-A fever over 101 degrees
-A bad headache
-No feeling in your face
-Nausea or vomiting – call your doctor right away
-Jaw pain that does not improve with pain medicine
-Loose wires or splints in your mouth