West Jersey Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons. P.C.

Bleeding

Although sutures are placed at the end of the procedure, a small amount of oozing is normal during the first day. A slightly moistened gauze pad, which will be provided for you, may be placed at the surgical site. This may need to be replaced every hour for a few changes.

Swelling

Swelling is often seen following this type of surgery. The most common time for the development of swelling is from 24 to 48 hours following the procedure. The swelling usually begins to decrease after 72 hours and usually, within one week no noticeable swelling is present.

To help minimize swelling, we recommend the use of ice for the first 24 hours. You should apply the ice for 30 minutes on and then remove it for 30 minutes. After the first 24 hours, ice is of little benefit.

Some discoloration of the skin tissues may be noticed, especially in the elderly population. Although this may be unsightly, it is of no concern and has no effect on the healing process and will resolve over time.

Pain

Some degree of discomfort following this procedure should be expected. The degree varies from patient to patient. Generally, the worst discomfort will be in the first few hours after the local anesthetics have stopped working. The surgeon will usually prescribe some medication for the control of this discomfort. We suggest taking the pain medication prior to the local anesthetic wearing off. This medication may be repeated as needed for pain. If only minor discomfort is present, we recommend use of mild medication such as that used for the relief of headaches or other minor pains. The pain medication should be taken with or immediately after a light meal or snack to avoid stomach irritation.

Home Care

No manipulation of the area should be performed until the day after the surgery. We recommend soft foods for the first 24 hours and then for the first week, you should avoid hard to chew foods, very spicy foods, and extremely hot foods. After the first day we recommend warm saltwater rinses, especially after eating. The teeth in the area may be brushed normally while those in the area along with the sutures should be cleaned by gently brushing.

Antibiotics

The surgeon in almost all instances will prescribe a course of antibiotics. The antibiotic medication should be used exactly as prescribed and should be finished. If any reaction to the prescribed medication occurs such as itching, shortness of breath or stomach cramps, stop the medication and call the office.

Follow-up Appointments

The first follow up visit will be one or two weeks postoperatively. This visit is brief and no anesthetic is required. The patient is then placed on a recall list for six months at which time a follow-up exam and x-ray will be taken.