After Surgery
Certain reactions can be expected after surgery. The purpose of this form is to acquaint you with these so you can take the necessary steps to promote rapid healing.
First, you can expect the area to ooze blood slightly for 1 or 2 days, making your saliva pink. This is normal and no cause for concern.
Second, some swelling invariably results from any surgical procedure. Ice applied to the face over the area for 5 or 6 hours after the surgery is very helpful in reducing swelling. Keep the ice on for 15 – 20 minutes, remove it for a like period and then continue this alternate treatment until the 5 or 6 hours have elapsed. After this time ice is no longer very effective. The disposable ice bag provided is effective for about 30 minutes. When at home use ice cubes wrapped in a towel. Third, some minor discomfort may be expected. Nurofen (Ibuprofen 200mg) is usually sufficient to control this. Occasionally a stronger agent such as Panadeine is needed. Two tablets every 4 -6 hours is the usual dose for Nurofen. Drugs that contain aspirin (Bex, Disprin, Codral) are not recommended because aspirin tends to increase bleeding. You may also be prescribed antibiotics to treat any residual infection.
Besides these three main reactions, there are other factors you should be aware of:
- A piece of gauze may be placed between your lip or cheek and your teeth. You will be advised when to remove this.
- Rest is important after surgery for at least the first 24 hours.
- Do not rinse today as this increase the risk of bleeding.
- Do not lift your lip to inspect the area as this pulls on the sutures.
- Smoking and alcohol interfere with healing and should be avoided at least 24 hours.
- After surgery eat whatever you wish. Try and avoid depositing food in the surgical area – cleanliness assists healing. Hot food may stimulate bleeding and should be avoided until tomorrow.
- Tomorrow morning begin rinsing with Savacol. Use a capful of Savacol in capful of warm water and gently rinse the surgical area for one minute. It is permissible to gently lift your lip so the Savacol reaches the area. Rinse after each meal and before bedtime (at least four times a day). The rinsing should continue for one week or as directed.
- Gentle tooth brushing, the surgical area for one week or as directed. However, you should brush the rest of your teeth as usual. You should be able to do this form tomorrow. If you are unable to do so use Savacol temporarily.
- You will be given an appointment to remove the sutures in a few days.
Please keep this form for your reference. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask. Please call us (24 hours) if you have any problems or concerns.