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By Abdulaziz Ali - Medically reviewed by Dt. Musa Kaya, on Sep 15, 2024

What is Bone Graft?

A bone graft is a procedure where doctors use bone from another part of your body, a donor, or a synthetic material to help fix or rebuild a bone that's been damaged or weakened. Think of it as giving your bones a little extra help to heal and get stronger. Over time, the new bone blends in with the old, making the area more solid and supportive.

Bone Graft Recovery Timeline

Recovering from a bone graft takes some time, but it’s manageable. Usually, you’ll need about 2 to 4 weeks to start feeling more like yourself. If you’re having the surgery in Turkey, plan to stay around for at least 7 to 10 days so your doctor can keep an eye on things.

You can probably go back to work in 1 to 2 weeks, but if your job is physically demanding, it might take a little longer. Exercise is usually okay after about 4 to 6 weeks, but it’s best to check with your doctor first. The final results of your graft might take a few months to really show, as the new bone slowly fuses with the old. During this time, avoid heavy activities and focus on eating well—lots of calcium and protein will help your bones heal faster.

How Does Bone Graft Procedure Work

Consultation


When you first meet with your surgeon, they’ll talk with you about your health, the condition of your bones, and whether a bone graft is right for you. This is also your chance to ask questions and understand what the surgery will be like.

Before the Surgery


To get ready for your bone graft, you’ll need to stop taking certain medications, like blood thinners, a couple of weeks before the surgery. It’s also important to quit smoking and avoid alcohol during this time because they can slow down your healing. Don’t forget to arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery, and plan to take at least a week off work so you can rest and recover properly.

The Surgery


During the surgery, your doctor will make a small cut to reach the area that needs the graft. They’ll place the new bone where it’s needed most. Over time, this new bone will blend in with your existing bone, helping it heal and become stronger.

Follow-Up


After the surgery, you’ll have a follow-up appointment within a week to make sure everything is healing as it should. Depending on how you’re doing, your doctor might schedule more follow-ups in the next few months to keep an eye on your progress.

Side Effects of Bone Graft Procedure

Here are a few things you might notice after your bone graft:

  • Swelling and bruising around the surgery area
  • Some pain or discomfort where the graft was done
  • A small risk of infection
  • Rarely, nerve injury
  • In very few cases, the body might not accept the graft

Bone Graft Surgery Results

Bone grafts usually have a high success rate, around 90%. Most people see a big improvement in how their bones feel and work after the surgery. For example, if you’re getting a bone graft to prepare for dental implants, there’s about a 95% success rate, meaning most people are able to get their implants and enjoy a strong, healthy smile afterward.

How to Prepare for Bone Graft Surgery

Here are a few simple steps to get ready for your surgery:

  • Stop taking blood-thinning meds like aspirin two weeks before the surgery.
  • Quit smoking and drinking alcohol at least two weeks before.
  • Make sure someone can drive you home after the procedure.
  • Plan to take a week off work to rest and recover.
  • Eat a diet rich in calcium and protein to help your bones heal faster.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does a bone graft last?


A bone graft can last a long time, even for life, if it blends well with your natural bone. How well it lasts depends on where the graft is and how healthy you are.

Is bone graft surgery painful?


You won’t feel pain during the surgery because of the anesthesia, but you might feel some discomfort and swelling afterward. Pain medicine will help with this.

Can I eat normally after a bone graft?


If your graft is in your jaw, you’ll need to stick to soft foods at first. Your doctor will give you advice on what’s safe to eat.

When can I return to work after a bone graft?


Most people can go back to work in 1 to 2 weeks. If your job isn’t too physically demanding, you might return sooner.

What are the risks of bone graft surgery?


While problems are rare, they can include infection, the graft not blending in, nerve issues, or a longer healing time than expected.

How successful are bone grafts for dental implants?


Bone grafts for dental implants work about 95% of the time, so most people go on to get their implants without any problems.

Can a bone graft fail?


It’s rare, but a bone graft can fail if it doesn’t connect well with your natural bone. Smoking, infection, or not enough bone material can cause this.

What should I avoid after a bone graft?


After your graft, try to avoid heavy physical activities, smoking, and drinking alcohol. Also, follow your doctor’s dietary advice to help your bones heal well.