General Post-Operative Care
Wound Management: Do not disturb the wound. Avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the wound on the day of surgery.
Bleeding: Minor bleeding or blood-tinged saliva for 24 hours is typical. For excessive bleeding, apply gauze directly to the site with light pressure for 30 minutes, changing the pad every 30 minutes as needed.
Swelling: Apply ice continuously, as much as possible, for the first 48 hours. Peak swelling typically occurs within 48–72 hours and subsides over 3–5 days. Contact your doctor if swelling increases after day three.
Diet: Consume soft foods and liquids initially, avoiding hot items. Drink plenty of fluids, and keep solid foods away from the surgical site.
Pain Management: Begin pain medication before the anesthetic wears off. Over-the-counter ibuprofen (200mg tablets, 3–4 tablets every 6–8 hours, maximum 3200mg daily) treats moderate pain. Use prescribed medication for severe discomfort.
Antibiotics: Complete the full prescribed course to prevent infection.
Oral Hygiene
Use warm saltwater rinses at least 4–5 times daily, especially after meals. Avoid brushing the teeth adjacent to the surgical site for 5 days post-surgery, then gently resume.
Activity Restrictions
Minimize physical activity immediately following surgery — exercise may cause throbbing or bleeding.
Sinus Lift Specific Instructions
- Nasal Pressure: Do not blow your nose for at least 7 days. If you need to sneeze, do so with your mouth open to minimize nasal pressure.
- Nasal Decongestants: Over-the-counter options like Sudafed or Afrin may be used as needed.
- Hydration: Avoid straws; use a cup or spoon instead.
- Smoking: Prohibited, as it reduces blood flow and increases infection risk.
- Probiotics: Consume 1–2 servings of yogurt or acidophilus tablets daily.
Prosthesis and Sleep Guidelines
Avoid wearing dentures, night guards, or CPAP machines for 7–14 days post-surgery unless otherwise instructed. Sleep elevated at a slight angle, avoiding the surgical side.
Questions? Call our Henderson office at (702) 212-6641.