Benefits of Lymp-Buccal Massage (MLD) after Jaw surgery (Orthognathic surgery)
Orthognathic surgery (Jaw surgery) is a specialised surgical procedure to correct irregularities and misalignments of the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible) or chin to improve facial function and/or aesthetics. Lymph-buccal massage is a type of Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), a gentle massage technique that stimulates the lymphatic system. It helps recovery from orthognathic surgery by reducing postoperative swelling, pain, and discomfort, thus boosting your immune system and promoting healing. Let´s have a closer look…
What is Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery (jaw surgery) is a surgery performe in your jaw or nearest areas. Its main objective is to improve your jaw function or aesthetic (or both if needed). In other words, surgeons perform orthognathic surgery when orthodontic treatment alone cannot resolve jaw misalignments, when there are several functional issues, aesthetics, etc,. Jaw surgery might need repositioning the upper jaw, lower jaw (bilateral sagittal split osteotomy), or chin (genioplasty) to correct skeletal jaw abnormalities.
The surgery addresses functional issues such as difficulty chewing, speaking, breathing, and also improves facial symmetry and aesthetics. The procedure may include moving one or more parts of the jaw and is done through incisions inside the mouth with minimal external scarring.
How do I know if I need Jaw surgery?: Causes for orthognathic surgery
Most common causes are:
- Malocclusion. Misalignment of teeth due to improper bite (overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite).
- Jaw misalignment. Discrepancies in jaw growth causing speech difficulties, chewing problems
- TMJ conditions (Temporomandibular joint disorders- there are 30 different types) jaw joint or/and the muscles dysfunction. Some symptoms are: jaw pain, soreness, headaches, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, clicking or popping sounds you chew.
- Obstructive sleep apnea. Misalignments can momentarily interrupt breathing while sleeping. So, repositioning the jaw can widen the airway, reducing breathing interruptions during rest.
- Facial trauma and congenital defects. When there are fractures or deformities, surgery is performed for better function and appearance.
- Facial asymmetry and cosmetic concerns. Balancing facial proportions to get closer to the patient’s aesthetic requirements and needs.
Benefits of Lymp-Buccal Massage (MLD) after Jaw Surgery
Our specialised Lymph-Buccal Massage is a gentle type of MLD designed to improve blood and lymph flow. It blends Buccal Massage, Lymphatic Drainage, Jaw Mobilization, and Myofascial Release; in order to reduce pain, swelling, tension in the jaw, face or neck, improve healing, etc,. It can be performed before and after orthognathic surgery.
Clinical studies have explored the benefits of MLD post-orthognathic surgery and some finding are:
- MLD can accelerate the reduction of postoperative swelling, evidenced by 3D facial scans.
- Patients receiving MLD report less pain and improved comfort during the first month after surgery.
- While some studies show no statistically significant differences, MLD is considered safe and helpful in enhancing recovery comfort, reducing facial edema, reducing stress and anxiety before and after surgery, and improving general well-being.
- MLD may also help to speed up postoperative facial swelling and improve patient quality of life during recovery.
Other benefits of Lymph-buccal massage (MLD)
- Jaw & Tension Relief: Specifically designed for those with jaw tension, TMD (Temporomandibular Disorder), or who are prone to stress-related tension. This treatment alleviates pain and discomfort while improving overall relaxation.
- Aesthetic Enhancement: Sculpted cheeks, a defined jawline, and a lifted, rejuvenated facial appearance.
- Detox & Circulation Boost: Improves lymphatic and blood circulation, reducing puffiness, and promoting a healthier, more vibrant complexion.
- Relaxation & Mood Enhancement: Promotes deep relaxation, reduces stress, and enhances mood through targeted muscle relaxation and facial toning.
- Also, ideal for those with sinus issues (reduces swelling and helps to open airways).
Lymph- Buccal Massage (MLD) after Jaw Surgery: A final word…
Orthognathic surgery is a pivotal procedure for correcting jaw deformities that affect function and appearance. Complementary therapies like Manual Lymphatic Drainage can support and speed up recovery by managing swelling, pain and discomfort; in addition, it relieves stress and axiety before and after surgery. In other words, Lymph-Buccal Massage makes smoother your healing experience. If you have any questions, contact us, we are glad to help!
We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always glad to help. If you like this blog, please share!
References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32680812/
https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT01983436
