Post-Surgical Care Instructions

These guidelines are provided to help manage your recovery following your surgical procedure. They are designed to reduce discomfort and highlight situations that may require further attention.

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Pain Management

It’s normal to experience discomfort for the first week after surgery. You will receive a prescription for pain medication to help manage this. Take your medications as instructed and avoid letting the pain build up by taking them regularly. To prevent nausea, avoid taking pain medication on an empty stomach.

If you prefer over-the-counter options, a combination of Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be effective. Recommended dosages:

  • Option 1: 3 Advil Liqui-Gels + 2 Regular Strength Tylenol every 6 hours.
  • Option 2: 3 Advil Liqui-Gels + 1 Extra Strength Tylenol every 6 hours.

⚠ Important: If you’re taking prescription pain medications that contain Acetaminophen (e.g., Percocet, Hydrocodone, or Tylenol with Codeine), avoid additional Tylenol to prevent exceeding the safe daily limit. Contact our office with any concerns about medication usage.

Antibiotics

If an antibiotic is prescribed, take it as directed until the full course is finished. Inform our office of any allergies or sensitivities to antibiotics. To reduce the chance of nausea, take antibiotics with food. Women using oral contraceptives should note that antibiotics can affect their effectiveness.

Swelling

Swelling is common and usually peaks 2–3 days after surgery. To minimize this, apply an ice pack to the cheek near the surgical site for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. Continue using ice for the first 2–3 days as frequently as possible.

Bleeding

A small amount of bleeding is normal. If bleeding becomes excessive or does not stop:

  1. Avoid rinsing your mouth the first 24 Hours .
  2. Keep your head elevated while lying down.
  3. Apply moistened gauze to the area with moderate pressure for 20 minutes; repeat if needed.
  4. Use a moistened tea bag wrapped in gauze and apply pressure for 20 minutes.
  5. Contact our office if bleeding persists.

Diet

Avoid chewing on the side where the procedure was performed until you’re comfortable. Refrain from consuming hot foods or drinks for at least 1day after surgery.Stick to soft foods such as yogurt, oatmeal, eggs, pasta, soup, mashed potatoes, and fruit, Etc. Proper nutrition supports healing and recovery.

Smoking and Alcohol

  • Smoking: Avoid smoking for at least 2 weeks, as it can delay healing and impact the results of your surgery.
  • Alcohol: Do not consume alcohol due to delay healing and while taking prescription pain medication.

Oral Care

  • Rinsing: Do not rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours. After that, you may use a gentle, diluted mouthwash to keep the area clean.
  • Brushing: Avoid brushing the surgical site. You can resume brushing and flossing in other areas of your mouth the day after surgery.

Sutures and Healing

You may experience some discomfort 3–4 days after surgery as the tissue begins to heal and may pull against the sutures or dressing. To minimize tenderness, consider taking pain medication an hour before your suture removal appointment.

If you require premedication with antibiotics, take the prescribed dose 1 hour before your suture removal appointment.

Contact Information

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out during business hours at (734) 542-9904.