Post Operative Instructions

• Keep your fingers away from the site. Do not smoke for 72 hours following surgery.
• EATING: Do not rinse your mouth for 12 hours. You may drink lukewarm or cool liquids – Avoid hot foods and beverages. For the first few days limit your diet to soft foods.
• ORAL HYGIENE: Avoid brushing in the area for 12 hours. The next day you should rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water after each meal and brush your teeth using toothpaste and a soft toothbrush.
• BLEEDING: It is normal for the saliva to be slightly streaked with blood for a couple days. If brisk bleeding is present, fold gauze (or a tea bag) moistened in warm water into a firm thick wad, and then place it directly over the surgical site. Apply pressure for 30 minutes.
• SWELLING: Some swelling is to be expected. If the area appears swollen or bruised, an ice bag can be applied to the outside of the face for 20 minutes on, and then 20 minutes off, for the first day.
• DISCOMFORT: Usually no prescription pain killers are necessary. One or two Tylenol tablets may be taken as necessary to relieve the discomfort.
• ANTIBIOTICS: Antibiotics are not usually needed after a biopsy.
• EMERGENCIES: Do not hesitate to call the office if you have severe bleeding, pain, or swelling. After hours, go to the Emergency Department of your local hospital e.g. Mt. Sinai Hospital (416-586-5054).