Bromelain to reduce facial swelling after jaw surgery

Effectiveness of Bromelain Supplement in Reduction of Facial Swelling Caused by Orthognathic Surgery

Not applicable Interventional University of Kentucky · NCT07115212

This test will see if taking a daily bromelain supplement before and after orthognathic (jaw) surgery reduces facial swelling and shortens how long swelling lasts in adults.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Kentucky Academic / other
Locations1 site (Lexington, Kentucky)
Trial IDNCT07115212 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

Adults scheduled for orthognathic (jaw) surgery will take a bromelain supplement once daily for nine days total (two days before surgery and seven days after). Participants will keep a log of supplement use and any other medications, and will attend pre- and post-operative clinic visits for measurement and follow-up. The study will measure the amount and duration of facial swelling and collect safety information related to the supplement. Results will be compared across participants to see whether bromelain use is associated with reduced swelling or faster resolution.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Adults (18+) who are scheduled for orthognathic jaw surgery, speak English, and do not have craniofacial anomalies, systemic healing disorders, or an allergy to pineapple or latex are ideal candidates.

Not a fit: Patients with systemic diseases that impair healing, craniofacial anomalies, those under 18, or those allergic to pineapple/latex would not be expected to benefit from this supplement and are excluded.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, bromelain could reduce post-operative facial swelling and shorten recovery time after jaw surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Small trials and reviews have suggested bromelain may modestly reduce post-surgical swelling and bruising, but the evidence is mixed and not definitive.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* undergoing orthognathic surgery

Exclusion Criteria:

* craniofacial anomalies
* incomplete patient data
* systemic disease that could affect healing
* allergy to latex or pineapple
* under 18 years of age
* non english speaking

Where this trial is running

Lexington, Kentucky

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions MalocclusionBromelainOral Supplements
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.