Post-Surgical Instructions
- Avoid strenuous exercise for the remainder of the day.
- Smoking and alcohol consumption delay wound healing and should be avoided for 3 days following surgery.
- In order to control swelling, place an ice bag over the surgical area-applying and removing at 15 minute intervals for the remainder of the day.
- Discoloration may appear following the surgery and will gradually disappear. If swelling occurs, it will reach its peak by the 4th day.
- Slight bleeding can be expected during the first day of surgery. If excessive bleeding occurs place a wet tea bag inside the mouth at the surgical site and press firmly on OUTSIDE of cheek for 1/2 hour. Keep head elevated. If bleeding persists, call the office.
- Do NOT raise the lip to look at operated area. It is possible to tear the stitches accidentally, open the incision and delay healing.
- Eat a soft diet; mashed potatoes, yogurt, eggs, pasta, etc. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods until the sutures are removed.
- Drink plenty of cold liquids. If possible, avoid hot drinks and soup for the first 24 hours. Do NOT drink through a straw.
- Starting the day after your surgery, use a warm salt-water rinse (1/2 glass of warm water, 1/2 teaspoon salt; repeat this 4 or 5 times a day for 2 weeks) or the prescribed mouth rinse (follow directions on bottle), whichever your doctor has prescribed. Rinse gently.
- For control of inflammation and pain, take 600mg of Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, or Generic) every 6 hours for 4 days following your procedure. If you can not take NSAIDS (Aspirin, Ibuprofen, or Naproxen) or if you are allergic to Aspirin, take 1000 mg of Tylenol every 4-6 hours as needed for pain.
- Take your prescribed antibiotic as directed.
- Return to the office as pre-arranged by appointment, approximately 7 days after surgery.
- If any unusual symptoms develop, please contact our office for advice or further instructions.