WhatsApp as a Support Tool for Reducing Anxiety and Improving Quality of Life After Orthognathic Surgery

Abstract Introduction Dentofacial deformities are associated with functional, aesthetic, and psychological impairments. Although orthognathic surgery is effective in the long term, the early postoperative period is often marked by discomfort and emotional vulnerability. WhatsApp may offer accessible postoperative support. Objective To evaluate the impact of WhatsApp-based follow-up on anxiety and quality of life after orthognathic surgery. Methods A prospective comparative study was conducted in patients undergoing orthognathic surgery, comparing standard postoperative care with additional WhatsApp support. Anxiety and quality of life were assessed using the Beck Anxiety Inventory, Oral Health Impact Profile-14, and RAND-36 at baseline and 21 days postoperatively. Paired t tests and delta (Δ) values were used to assess within-group changes. Results The WhatsApp group showed reduced anxiety (ΔBAI = − 5.3; p = 0.013), whereas no significant change was observed in the standard care group. Oral health–related quality of life worsened only in the standard care group. Most RAND-36 domains showed no significant changes. Conclusion This small exploratory study suggests that WhatsApp-based follow-up may reduce anxiety during the first 21 postoperative days after orthognathic surgery. Findings should be interpreted cautiously given the small sample size and non-randomized design.