Whether you are having a TMJ arthroplasty, total joint replacement, or reconstructive orthognathic jaw surgery, there are certain tips that patients who have been through the procedures can give you for an easier recovery.
Here is a list of tips that we have gathered along the way:

• Buy a bunch of pajamas and clothes that do not have to be put on over your head.
• Test out different types of protein powder before surgery so you can find the type you like.
• Buy a child-sized toothbrush for when you cannot open your mouth very wide.
• Stock up on frozen peas, corn, or other vegetables for moldable ice packs.
• Purchase a back wedge pillow to put in your bed to make sleeping easier.
• Purchase a pillow to support your neck, or roll up and tape a towel.
• Get your prescriptions filled before the surgery.
• Set up your bed area prior to surgery so that you are not scrambling after when you are in pain.
• Stock up on foods at the grocery store.  Pay attention to super foods, such as greek yogurt, blueberries, and pomegranate.
• Place a plastic lawn chair in the shower so that you don’t have to stand when you are exhausted.
• Consider having someone take care of your animals or children for the first couple days after surgery.
• Purchase a Thermophore heating pad for moist heat.
• If you will be wired, consider buying Zip n Squeeze, which make eating much easier.
• Consider getting a subscription to Netflix or another DVD rental service.  You may not feel like reading.
• A bed lounger with a back and armrests is a welcomed comfort when stuck in bed all day.
• Maintain wound and suture care as directed, keeping skin incisions clean and dressed.

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