There’s no denying that maxillofacial surgery is still a frequently misunderstood domain. One of the most common queries that patients have relates to pain during and after the procedure. “Is maxillofacial surgery painful?” This is a question that Dr Mark Austin intends to address in this article.
Pain During Maxillofacial Surgery
During the procedure, pain is most often not an issue as most maxillofacial surgeries are performed under anesthesia. The type of anesthesia used would depend on the complexity of the surgery and could range from local anesthesia to sedation, or general anesthesia.
Post-Surgery Pain
Some discomfort or pain after maxillofacial surgery is expected as your body begins the healing process. The level of post-surgical pain can vary widely, depending on the complexity of the procedure, individual pain tolerance, and overall health. The good news is that this pain can be managed effectively.
Pain Management
Maxillofacial surgeons will prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort after surgery. The type and dosage of medication will depend on your individual needs and the extent of the surgical procedure. It’s essential to follow the directions provided by your surgeon to get the best pain relief.
Non-drug methods can also help to relieve discomfort, reduce swelling, and accelerate the healing process. These might involve using a cold compress on the affected area, keeping the head elevated to minimize swelling, or using a warm compress to soothe stiff jaw muscles.
The Role of Preoperative Consultation
Before undertaking maxillofacial surgery, you should have a thorough preoperative consultation with your surgeon. This conversation allows patients to discuss anticipated levels of discomfort during recovery and how to manage pain effectively. Clarifying these matters before the procedure can alleviate anxiety and help patients prepare for recovery.
Grading Your Post-Surgery Pain
After the maxillofacial surgery, communicate effectively with your medical team about your pain levels. Pain can often be graded on a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is no pain, and 10 is the worst possible pain. This scale helps your medical team to assess your comfort levels and adjust your pain management accordingly Dr Mark Austin.
