Kinesio Taping vs Rigid Compression Taping Following Bimaxillary Orthognathic Surgery

Postoperative facial swelling and pain are common complications following corrective jaw surgery (bimaxillary orthognathic surgery). This randomized controlled trial aimed to determine whether elastic therapeutic taping (Kinesio taping) applied using a mechanical correction technique is more effective than standard rigid compression taping in reducing acute postoperative pain and facial swelling. The study also evaluated changes in oral health-related quality of life. A total of 36 adult patients undergoing elective bimaxillary orthognathic surgery were randomly assigned into two equal groups (18 participants per group): Kinesio Taping Group: Participants received bilateral elastic Kinesio taping applied with a mechanical correction technique. Rigid Compression Taping Group: Participants received bilateral rigid compression taping over the surgical facial area. Both taping applications were initiated immediately following surgery and maintained for 7 days, with tape replacement on the third postoperative day. All participants received identical standardized postoperative medication and cryotherapy protocols. Pain intensity was measured using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) across 7 days, facial swelling was assessed through bilateral landmark tape measurements across 7 days, and quality of life was evaluated using the Orthognathic Quality of Life Questionnaire (OQLQ) through 3 weeks post-surgery.