Post Operative Instructions for Biopsies, Vestibuloplasties, Apicos

NRV ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY, LTD

Phone # Blacksburg (540) 951-8777 Phone # Fairlawn (540) 633-5700

Post Operative Instructions for Biopsy, Vestibuloplasty,

Apicoectomy, ______

If you had IV sedation (went to sleep)today for your surgical procedure,go straight home and rest when discharge from our office.

You will be sleepy, have some memory loss and may become nauseated, dizzy and/or faint from the sedation.

An adult MUST stay with you for 12-24 hours after your surgery.

Today lie on your right side with your head elevated until all the effects of the anesthetic disappear.

You must not operate any mechanical equipment or drive a motor vehicle for at least 24 hours (longer if you feel any residual effect from the anesthetic or are taking the prescription pain medication). Do not use stairs by yourself.

No strenuous activity for 2-3 days.

Inside the mouth

1. Bleeding: The gauze may be changed every 1 hour for the next 2-4 hrs. Leave 3-6 pieces of gauze together (you should have a firm pack that applies pressure without a lot of biting down) fold in half then half again, moisten the gauze packs slightly and place at the surgical site.

2. In 24 hours start rinsing your mouth with Peridex or warm salt water (1/4 tsp. per 1/4 cup of very warm water) between meals and before bedtime.

3. Thesutures will dissolve on their own in 5-14 days.

4. Keep your mouth clean to prevent infection.Brush your teeth as usual being careful in the surgical area.The area will be sore and bleed some with brushing but this will stop as the area heals.

5. Do not eat or drink foods that are hot and spicy or any citrus fruits or drinks.

Outside the mouth

1. If the surgical site was on the lips or outside of your face, apply an ice pack for 20 minutes then remove the ice pack for 30 minutes. Continue this for the next 24 hours.

2.Black sutures will need to be removed by our office in 7-10 days.

3. Keep the area clean. You may shower in 24hours and allow the water to run over the surgical area. Clean with q-tips while the area is moist so stitches remain visible.

4. You may apply Neosporin ointment to the site 2-4 times a day.

5. Narcotics will not be given after office hours.

6. Please be assured that our interest in your case does not end with the completion of surgery. If you have an emergency after hours, please go to the nearest emergency room or call our office for further automated instructions.