Q: I recently underwent a surgery of the upper jaw. How long will it take for the pain to stop? When will I be able to eat normal food? When will the swelling stop?

A:Following surgery there is temporary swelling of the lips, cheeks, and perhaps bruising, but this is a normal healing response and usually disappears over the first 7 to 14 days. In the first few days after surgery there may also be sore throat or nasal congestion due to the nasal tubes used for anaesthesia. This postoperative discomfort is not usually significant and it can be controlled with medications. Nutrition during the first week after surgery is very important and you should take supplements. The initial healing phase takes approximately six weeks, however, the completed healing process will require approximately 9 to 12 months. During this healing phase it is very important that oral hygiene is well maintained.