Post-surgical Care Instructions
Thank you for trusting us with your care. Please follow these guidelines to support a smooth and comfortable recovery.
1. Control Bleeding
Bite gently but firmly on gauze for 30-60 minutes.
Replace gauze every 30 minutes as needed.
Slight oozing is normal for the first 24 hours.
If bleeding persists, bite on a moist black tea bag for 30 minutes.
Avoid spitting, sucking on straws, or vigorous rinsing.
2. Reduce Swelling
Apply an ice pack (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) for the first 24 hours.
Sleep with your head elevated to minimize swelling.
Swelling typically peaks at 2-3 days and then subsides.
3. Manage Pain
Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications as directed.
Avoid aspirin as it may increase bleeding.
Begin pain medication before the numbness wears off.
4. Protect the Surgical Site
Do not touch or disturb the surgical area.
Avoid smoking or vaping for at least 7 days.
Avoid vigorous activity or heavy lifting for 3-5 days.
5. Oral Hygiene
Do not rinse for the first 24 hours.
After 24 hours, rinse gently with warm salt water (1/2 tsp salt in 8 oz water) every 3 hours and after every meal.
Brush carefully, avoiding the surgical site.
6. Eating and Drinking
Start with cool, soft foods such as yogurt, applesauce, smoothies, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and ice cream.
Gradually introduce soft solids like pasta, oatmeal, or well-cooked vegetables.
Avoid hot, spicy, acidic, crunchy, sticky, or hard foods (chips, nuts, seeds, popcorn, crusty bread, chewy meats).
Stay hydrated, but no straws for at least 5 days.
7. Sutures
If dissolvable, they will fall out in 5-10 days.
If not dissolvable, a follow-up visit will be scheduled for removal.
Call Us If You Experience:
Excessive bleeding (more than 4 hours)
Fever over 101°F
Severe pain not relieved by medication
Pus or foul taste/odor from the surgical site
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Your comfort and healing are our top priorities. Please call us at (585) 442-1951 if you have any questions or concerns.