Post-surgery

≡ NO EATING – Do not eat during the first hour, and when eating, chew on the opposite side of the surgery.

≡ PROTECT – Keep the gauze placed in the area for the prescribed time to protect the surgery.

≡ SOFT DIET – It is important to eat after the first hour, and when doing so, consume soft and cold foods without effort.

≡ AVOID – Another precaution is to avoid straining or injuring the area. Do not spit or rinse your mouth forcefully, as it could cause injury and more bleeding.

≡ RECOVERY – To improve recovery time, you can use ice packs on the area. Apply ice intermittently to reduce swelling. Apply ice for the first 5-7 days after surgery. Ice should be applied for 20-minute periods, 3-4 times per day.

≡ no STRAINING – Avoid strenuous activities or lifting heavy objects in the first few days to prevent exerting pressure on the surgery.

≡ REST – One of the best ways to enhance recovery is to rest properly for the first 3 days with a couple of pillows to maintain a slight incline while resting.

≡ NO SUN EXPOSURE – It is risky to be exposed to the sun for too long. High temperatures affect recovery, heat does not help reduce inflammation, and you may feel more pain.

≡ NO toUCHING – The surgical area is sensitive and should be cared for and respected. The stability of the implant is important, and touching the area with your hands or tongue is risky.

≡ medicaTION – Follow the instructions of your prescribed medications to the letter.

    Other Care

    • The anesthetic drugs used during your surgery may cause nausea for the first 24 hours.
    • If nausea occurs, drink only clear liquids (i.e., Sprite or 7-up).
    • If nausea and vomiting become severe or the patient shows sign of dehydration (lack of urination) please call the doctor or the surgery center.
    • A low-grade fever (100.5) is not uncommon in the first 24 hours, but is unusual beyond.
    • Please call the doctor with any temperature over 101.0 degrees.
    • Should severe pain in the affected area or significant swelling, please call the doctor.
    • Taking pain medication before bedtime will assist in sleeping.
    • It is important not to drink alcoholic beverages or drive while taking narcotic medication.
    • If you were prescribed narcotic medication (i.e., vicodin, hydrocodone, darvocet) you can supplement those medications with 200 mg or 400 mg of ibuprofen every 4-6 hours.
    • You should resume your normal medications for other conditions the day after surgery.

    Activities

    • Most patients are able to drive as soon as they stop taking narcotic pain medication.
    • Driving while under the influence of narcotic pain medication is dangerous and greatly discouraged.
    • Returning to school or work also depends on the degree of postoperative pain and the demands of your job or classes.
    • Pain is generally a good guide as to whether you can return or not.

    Follow-up

    • The doctor will need to re-examine you in 7-10 days after surgery. Please contact us to schedule an appointment.
    • If unexpected problems, emergencies or other issues occur and you need to talk to the doctor, call to LaserTech Med/Spa administrative assistant. After hours our answering service will route your call to a physician who will be able to advise you concerning your problem.