After Surgery

HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS FOLLOWING SURGERY:

1. Swelling, minor pain, and/or skin discoloration may be experienced. This will be temporary.
2. In order to keep possible swelling to a minimum, the use of an ice pack on the face over the operated area is recommended.  The ice pack should be used for 20 minutes on the area and 20 minutes off, etc.  This is done during normal waking hours for the rest of the day.
3. Starting tomorrow use warm salt water rinses (1/2 teaspoon salt to 8oz of warm water).  Hold the warm salt water on the treated area under the lip or cheek followed by rinsing gently for 2-3minutes. Repeat as often as possible.
4. Some bleeding or oozing from the surgical site may occur in the first few days.  It is a normal occurrence after surgery as the site begins to heal.
5. Do not smoke for at least four hours following surgery to facilitate healing.
6. Do not raise lip with your fingers to inspect the treated area.  This may pull a suture and delay healing.
7. Brush the rest of the teeth tonight, staying away from the surgical area.
8. Starting tomorrow begin using the prescribed oral rinse (Chlorhexidine 0.12%). Rinse twice per day: in the morning and at night for 30 seconds.
9. To control discomfort take the pain medication that was prescribed by your doctor.
10. We will send a tissue specimen to the laboratory for examination.  You will receive a bill from the laboratory for this service.
11. If you have any questions call the office at any time, day, night or weekends.