What Is the Healing Time After a Bone Graft Procedure?

By Staff WriterLast Updated March 31, 2020

The healing time after a bone graft procedure is three months or more for the bone graft itself and up to three months for the patient to recover, according to MedlinePlus. The bone graft size and extent of the defect or injury determine the length of recovery time.

Doctors may advise bone graft patients to avoid exercising vigorously for up to six months, notes MedlinePlus. Patients should consult their medical professionals about what they can and cannot do. Patients need to keep the bone graft area dry and clean and follow the health care professional’s instructions about showering. A bone graft may not heal in patients who smoke, as smoking prevents or slows the bone healing process.