THINGS TO EXPECT

Hemorrhage:	Bleeding or oozing for the first 12 to 24 hours is to be expected.
Discomfort:	The most discomfort you will experience will be during the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery and should diminish by the fourth post- operative day.
Swelling:	This is normal after a surgical procedure. It should reach its maximum in 24 to 48 hours and diminish by the fourth post-operative day.

THINGS TO DO

Bleeding:	Bite on the gauze for at least 30 minutes. If oozing continues, bite on a dampened gauze until it stops. If excessive bleeding persists, call this office.
Swelling:	Swelling may be minimized by the immediate use of ice or cold packs. Apply ice packs to the face for 15 minutes and then remove for 15 minutes. Repeat for the first 8 hours only. Prolonged use of ice is of no value.
Medication:	Take all medications as directed. This is essential in order to control pain, prevent infection, and minimize swelling.
Diet:	After the freezing wears off, fluid intake is advised. After 8 hours, a soft, nutritious diet is essential for proper healing. This would include soup, yogurt, mashed potatoes and plenty of fluids.
Cleaning:	Do not rinse on the day of surgery. Rinse with warm salt water after meals. A toothbrush may be used in the areas not involved by the surgery. A clean mouth heals faster.

Pressure:	Avoid smoking, spitting, and drinking through a straw. This creates negative pressure in the mouth which in turn leads to pain and delayed healing.
Activity:	Avoid strenuous physical activity for 24 hours. Physical activity increases the blood pressure and may cause renewed bleeding.