Title: Hilotherapy use in orthognathic surgery
Abstract:
Introduction: Hilotherm masks are facial devices used to apply temperature regulated water to desired areas overlying the skin following surgery or trauma.The benefits of hilotherapy following orthognathic surgery have been explored recently, demonstrating reduction in patient pain and swelling. However, hilotherapy is not currently accessible to all patients.
Aims:
- To investigate overall patient experience using hilotherapy following orthognathic surgery
- To compare the patient perception of pain, swelling and time taken to return to normal activity in hilotherm patients versus conventional ice pack patients
Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of patients between September 2024 and September 2025 identified 30 patients who underwent bimaxillary osteotomies; 15 received hilotherm masks and 15 patients received ice packs in their recovery. Teleconsultations were used to survey patients with questions using a 5-point Likert scale response to study pain, swelling and time taken to return to normal activities.
Results/Statistics:
- 98% hilotherapy patients reported a significant reduction in pain and swelling compared to lower percentages in those with ice packs only.
- 84% of patients who used the hilotherm found it easy to use.
- 96% would recommend it to other patients and the majority would pay for a rental hilotherm.
- 100% patients who used hilotherm masks were discharged one day post-operatively.
Conclusion: Hilotherapy aids orthognathic recovery by minimising pain, post-operative swelling and recovery time. Patients prefer hilotherm masks over traditional ice packs, experiencing enhanced recovery and therefore enabling early discharge. We aim to implement hilotherm leaflets in pre-operative consultations for all orthognathic patients to improve accessibility. Consequently, this will facilitate discussions regarding hilotherapy as an option to improve recovery, comfort and overall patient experience.
