Prehabilitation is an evidence-based approach that aims to optimise a patient's physical and psychological health before surgery, with the goal of improving postoperative recovery and reducing complications. Rather than focusing solely on the surgical procedure itself, prehabilitation encourages patients to prepare both physically and mentally for the challenges of surgery and rehabilitation.
Evidence suggests that prehabilitation may improve functional recovery and enhance the patient's overall surgical experience, particularly when interventions target multiple domains such as exercise, nutrition, psychological wellbeing, and lifestyle factors. Although the strength of evidence varies across surgical specialties, prehabilitation is increasingly recognised as an important component of perioperative care.
The Dental Psychology Service has developed a psychologically informed prehabilitation programme for patients undergoing orthognathic surgery. Drawing on principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), the programme aims to reduce preoperative anxiety, improve preparedness, encourage realistic expectations, and support patients throughout their recovery.
An overview of the multidisciplinary prehabilitation programme, including psychological assessment, preparation for surgery, rehabilitation, and outcome evaluation.
A patient-reported outcome measure used to assess quality of life, appearance, function, and psychological wellbeing before and after corrective jaw surgery.
An overview of the current evidence supporting prehabilitation before surgery, including the potential benefits for recovery, functional outcomes, and patient experience.