Post-Op Instructions
PAIN: You may have some pain as a result of surgery. For mild pain, take 2 Tylenol or Advil every 4 hours. If other analgesics are prescribed, take as directed.
SWELLING: Some swelling can be expected. For one hour, apply an ice pack to the face: 10 minutes on and 10 minutes off. After 24 hours, warm packs or a heating pad may be used over swollen area. Also, after 24 hours, warm salt rinsed (1 tsp. Salt in 8 oz of water) will aid in reducing the swelling. If swelling occurs it usually reaches a maximum on the 3rd day and then goes down. This is normal. If you think you are running a fever or if the swelling is extremely large and causing difficulty, please call.
ANTIBIOTICS: If prescribed, please take as directed. You are to take all of the medication. IF YOU NOTICE ANY REACTION SUCH AS RASH OR ITCHING, DISCONTINUE USE AND CALL THE OFICE.
BLEEDING: you may see a few drops of blood in the saliva today. This is normal. If the bleeding persists, apply direct pressure to the area for 10 to 20 minutes. Repeat if necessary. Do not spit or rinse. This will prolong the bleeding.
SURGICAL DRESSING: A dressing may have been placed to protect the surgical area. It will harden within a few hours. Avoid very hot food or drink for a week, as they will soften the dressing. Avoid chewing on the side of the surgery. DO NOT BRUSH IN THE AREA OF THE SURGERY. Continue to brush and floss the rest of the mouth. Avoid smoking.
RINSING: You should not rinse today. In about 24 hours, if convenient, begin rinsing after each meal with a glass of ½ water and ½ listerine. This will keep the surgical area clean. If peridex has been prescribed, rinse twice daily.
DIET: Soft food (ground beef, fish, soft cheeses, etc.) are recommended for the first few days. You may eat anything soft that does not irritate. Certain fruit juices, highly seasoned foods and spices may irritate the area. TRY TO EAT OPPOSITE THE SURGERY.
LOSS OF DRESSING: The dressing contains no medicine and is solely a protective covering. If it should come off, there is no danger. Keep the area clean by swabbing with a moist Q-tip.
SUTURES: If you have sutures, do not remove them. Sutures look like black, green or white threads.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not
hesitate to call our office. (718) 980-4600