Is day-case surgery feasible for all orthognathic procedures?

Abstract

We analysed the feasibility of day-case treatment for orthognathic procedures including bimaxillary osteotomy. A retrospective analysis compared an initial overnight cohort with a default day-case protocol. In 2023 all 23 patients stayed in hospital overnight following surgery. In 2024/25 the default day-case protocol led to 12 of 18 patients electing to return home the day of surgery (p < 0.001). Postoperative complications presented in five patients after more than 48 hours. No complications were related to day-case care. This study suggests that day-case orthognathic procedures are feasible, safe, and preferred by most patients.