Post Surgical Instructions
In order to minimize postoperative discomfort and swelling 3 – 200mg ibuprofen should be taken 4 times for 2 days then as needed. If you can not take Aspirin or Ibuprofen, take 2 Extra Strength Tylenol 4X a day. In addition, the doctor may have prescribed a stronger pain medication, take as directed. As with all antibiotics, you may have some digestive tract difficulties. You can restore the normal digestive tract balance by eating yogurt.
You may have been given an antibacterial mouth rinse. Please rinse with a capful for 30 seconds every morning and night. In order to minimize swelling; place an ice pack on the outside of your face over the surgical area. For the day of the surgery only, the ice should be on every 20 minutes. Remove it occasionally so that your face does not get too cold.
In spite of this, some swelling may occur, lasting for even a few days after the procedure. Swelling usually peaks 2 Days after surgery. In order to bring down the swelling, place a hot compress over the swollen area and keep it there for as long a possible. Keep the compress as hot as possible without burning your face.
Do not smoke, rinse or expectorate for the remainder of the day. Slight bleeding may occur; this is to be expected. Placing a wet tea bag or wet gauze against the part of the dressing from which the blood seems to be coming may control heavier bleeding. Apply continuous firm pressure 20 minutes without removing it. Do not try to stop the bleeding by rinsing. If the bleeding persists please call the office.
