At Facial Surgery Center, your comfort and recovery are our top priorities. Please follow these guidelines carefully to promote healing and avoid complications. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact our office.
General Post-Operative Instructions
Control Bleeding — Keep firm pressure on the surgical site by gently biting on the provided gauze pack for 30–45 minutes. Replace the gauze as needed until bleeding subsides. Slight oozing is normal for the first 24 hours.
Manage Swelling — Apply an ice pack to the outside of your face over the surgical area for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off, during the first 24 hours. After 24 hours, switch to warm, moist compresses if needed to help reduce swelling.
Rest & Activity — Rest quietly for the remainder of the day. Avoid bending over, heavy lifting, and vigorous exercise for at least 48 hours to prevent increased bleeding and swelling.
No Straws — Do not drink through a straw for at least one week. The suction can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing (dry socket).
Smoking & Vaping —
The chemicals in tobacco/marijuana smoke and all vaping products are caustic and will significantly delay healing and increase post-operative pain, swelling, risk of infection, and risk of dry socket. Do not smoke or vape for at least two weeks after surgery.
Post-Op Anesthesia & Sedation Recovery
Local Anesthesia
Your lip and cheek may stay numb for up to 4 hours. Be careful not to bite or burn the tissues while sensation returns. You may resume normal activities once comfortable.
Oral Sedation
You will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least 6 hours after your procedure. Do not operate heavy machinery or make important decisions on the day of surgery.
Nitrous Oxide
Once the gas is turned off, you will breathe oxygen for a few minutes and can typically drive yourself home shortly after. Avoid alcohol and sedative medications for the rest of the day.
IV Sedation
You must have a responsible adult drive you home and stay with you for the rest of the day. Do not eat, drink, or smoke for 24 hours post-procedure. Rest and allow the sedation to fully wear off before resuming normal activities.
Diet & Oral Hygiene
Diet: Stick to soft, cool foods for the first 48–72 hours (e.g., yogurt, applesauce, smoothies, mashed potatoes). Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or hard foods that can irritate the surgical site.
Oral Hygiene: Do not rinse or spit forcefully for the first 24 hours. After that, gently rinse with warm salt water (½ tsp salt in 8 oz water) 3–4 times daily, especially after meals. Brush your teeth gently, avoiding the surgical area.
Medications
Take all prescribed medications as directed. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen may be used in between prescription doses to help control discomfort. Do not exceed the recommended dosages. If antibiotics are prescribed, finish the entire course to prevent infection.
Probiotics: may prevent and relieve some of the common side effects of antibiotics such as nausea, upset stomach, and diarrhea. Probiotics are considered safe and are naturally contained in products such as yogurt. We recommend taking probiotics while you are taking the oral antibiotic pills we prescribe for you. Probiotics are available over-the-counter, come in several forms, and can be purchased at your local pharmacy or supermarket. They should be taken at least 2 hours before taking antibiotic medications. It is important that you notify your doctor if you experience side effects of antibiotics as this may be a sign of serious conditions that may require medical attention.
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Experience personalized care and advanced surgical solutions at The Facial Surgery Center. We are here to help with all your oral and facial needs.
