Post-operative Instructions
These instructions apply to the surgical procedure just completed. They are designed to help you minimize post-surgical discomfort and inform you of any situation that may require special attention.
Dr. Davis will provide written post-surgical instructions for you and review them with you immediately following your procedure.
Medications
It is not unusual to have discomfort for at least the first week following your surgical procedure. Your instructions will cover medications recommended for discomfort. It is advisable to not take medication on an empty stomach, as nausea may result.
Please alert the office to any allergies or sensitivities that you might have to antibiotics. An antibiotic may will be prescribed following your surgical procedure. Take as directed until gone completed. It is advisable not to take these medications on an empty stomach, as nausea may result. For women taking birth control pills, be advised that antibiotics may interfere with their effectiveness.
Swelling
Swelling may occur following your surgical procedure and will typically increase 2-3 days after the procedure. To minimize the swelling, hold ice cold water in your cheek on the side of surgery as instructed. Continue using ice water for 2-3 days following the procedure as often as possible. Your cheek is thick and Ice packs on the outside do not reach the interior site of swelling.
Bleeding
A small amount of bleeding or’ oozing’ is normal. If excessive or continuous bleeding occurs:
- Do not rinse your mouth or gargle the day of surgery.
- Elevate your head when lying down.
- Apply moistened gauze to the immediate area with light pressure for 10 minutes; repeat if necessary.
- If the bleeding persists, apply a moistened plain tea bag for compression pressure for 10 minutes.
- Call the office if bleeding persists.
Diet
Until comfortable, avoid chewing on the side where surgery was completed. Avoid steaming hot foods and liquids for approximately 1 24 hours following the surgery; heat promotes swelling. Remember, adequate nutrition is essential for feeling better as well as for healing.
Smoking
Smoking interferes with you body’s healing. Do not smoke for at least 2 weeks following your surgical procedure. It will significantly slow healing and can compromise results.
Rinsing
Do not rinse or gargle for the first 24 hours.
Brushing
Do not brush the surgical site. You may resume normal brushing/flossing in other areas
Suture Removal
Dr. Davisprimarily uses dissolving sutures, but there are procedures that heal better with non-dissolving sutures. As the tissues begin to heal, you may feel a pulling sensation against the sutures. If you are a patient for whom Antibiotic Pre-Medication is required, take the prescribed antibiotics 1 hour prior to your suture removal appointment.
Contact Us
Should you have any questions or concerns during regular office hours, please do not hesitate to contact us at Lake Success Office Phone Number 516-775-0018.