Swelling can take up to three days to reach its maximum
Elevate your head on pillows for the first few days to minimize swelling
Apply a cold pack on the face for 20 minutes at a time for the first three days
Apply heat after first three days, massage the cheek gently, and exercise the jaw by opening and closing the mouth, three times a day
BLEEDING
A small amount of bleeding is normal for the first 24-48 hours
If the bleeding persists or is excessive, place a one-inch (2.5 cm) thick moistened gauze over the bleeding site. Firmly bite for 30 minutes. Repeat with fresh gauze if necessary. Use your fingers to apply pressure with the gauze if you cannot firmly bite on it
Alternatively, you can use a moistened tea bags instead of gauzes
MEDICATIONS and ANTIBIOTICS
Take all medications as prescribed by the surgeon and follow as directed.
If you are taking birth control pills or if you are prescribed or administered antibiotics, please be aware that the effectiveness of the birth control pill may be compromised. Therefore, other methods of birth control must be employed throughout the next complete cycle.
DIET
Upon arrival home, you can drink immediately clear fluids at room temperature (ie: apple juice or broth)
Soft foods may be started if tolerated (eg: fresh pasta, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes)
Avoid drinking alcohol for 24 hours
Do not use a straw for one week
ORAL HYGIENE
Avoid smoking for at least 3 days following the surgery
Do not rinse your mouth, brush your teeth, spit, or swish for the rest of the day
Begin rinsing the mouth with warm salt water (or prescribed mouth rinse) the following day
Start brushing your teeth using toothpaste but avoiding the surgical sites and the adjacent teeth the following day
If you were provided with a Monoject syringe, use as directed
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Rest is important for your recovery. Refrain from strenuous physical activity 1-2 days after surgery.
NAUSEA
Nausea may occur after a sedation.
Ginger-ale or soda cracker may help to alleviate nausea.
Gravol tablets or suppository may be purchased without a prescription. Follow the instructions on the packaging.
SINUS GRAFTING and SINUS PRECAUTIONS
Do not blow your nose
Do not use a straw
Light nosebleeds are normal
If you feel congested, use an over-the-counter decongestant like Otrivin
If you must sneeze, do so with your mouth open
SEDATION and ANESTHESIA
Your concentration, balance, coordination, and judgement may be impaired for many hours after anesthesia.
Plan to have a responsible adult with you for 24 hours after surgery.
Do not operate a car or any type of vehicle or machinery (for example, a lawn mower) for the next 24 hours.
Do not drink alcoholic beverages. You may be more sensitive to the intoxicating effects of alcohol for the next 24 hours.
Do not perform tasks that require much skill or fine finger work. (For example, you might cut a finger while carving a roast) for the next 24 hours.
Avoid making important legal or financial decisions; you may not be able to think clearly for the next 24 hours.
