To promote faster healing, we strongly recommend following the suggestions below. However, it's entirely normal to experience some discomfort and swelling in the lower part of your face after surgery.
Surgery Day:
- Use gauze pads with firm pressure in your mouth for 1 to 2 hours. Replace them every 20 to 30 minutes if needed.
- Apply ice to your cheek every hour for 20 minutes each time.
- In case of bleeding, gently bite down on a damp gauze or tea bag for about 20 minutes.
Things to Avoid:
- Refrain from mouth rinsing or spitting.
- Avoid using a straw for drinking.
- Don't smoke during this period.
- Opt for cold foods and drinks over hot ones, favoring soft textures.
- Avoid intense physical activities.
What to Do for Pain:
- During the first 24 to 72 hours, you can take a medication containing acetaminophen (Tylenol, Atasol) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), along with any prescribed pain relief medication. Avoid aspirin.
Daily Mouth Rinses:
- Perform three mouth rinses daily with warm saltwater (2 ml or 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 250 ml or 1 cup of water) from the day after surgery until complete healing.
Bruising and Mouth Opening:
- Bruising on the skin is possible, but it will gradually fade in five to seven days.
- Difficulty in opening your mouth is normal and will lessen in four to five days.
If Pain Intensifies:
- If pain worsens after three days, don't hesitate to contact us.
Feeling Better:
- You'll feel better in a few days and can resume your usual activities.
- For severe pain, significant bleeding, swelling for 2 to 3 days, or an adverse reaction to prescribed medication, please call us immediately at 514-925-3368.