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- Apply ice (in a plastic bag or ice pack) to face, 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off. Repeat all day today. This will keep swelling to a minimum.
- If swelling occurs, it will reach its peak by the 2nd day and then gradually diminish. Discoloration may also be seen following surgery.
- Slight bleeding can be expected during the first day of surgery. If excessive bleeding occurs place a wet tea bag inside the mouth at the surgical area and press firmly on OUTSIDE of cheek for 1/2 hour. Keep head elevated. If bleeding persists, call the office.
- Do NOT raise the lip to look at operated area. It is possible to tear the stitches accidentally, open the incision and delay healing.
- Do NOT brush or rinse your mouth in the surgical area for the first 48 hours. Do NOT use a rotary toothbrush or water pik for 7 days after the surgery.
- Eat a soft diet; mashed potatoes, yogurt, soup, fruit juices, eggs, malted milk, ice cream etc. Avoid hard food or other chewy food (steak, toast) until sutures come out.
- Drink plenty of liquids. If possible, avoid hot drinks for the first 24 hours. Do NOT drink through a straw.
- 48 hours after your surgery, use a warm salt water rinse (1/2 glass of water, 1/2 teaspoon salt; repeat 4 or 5 times a day for 2 weeks) or the prescribed mouth rinse (Peridex, follow directions on bottle), whichever your doctor has prescribed. Rinse gently.
- If there is pain, take the prescription medication as directed or if your medical history allows you can use an over-the-counter medication (i.e. one 600 mg Ibuprofen or three over-the-counter 200 mg Ibuprofen every six hours).
- Return to the office as pre-arranged by appointment, approximately 7 days after surgery.
- If any unusual symptoms develop, please contact our office for advice or further instructions.
- If prescribed antibiotics, take as directed until all medication is consumed.
- Continue taking any prescription drugs as directed.