Post-Op Instructions

We are here to support you throughout your recovery and healing process. Please review the following guidelines carefully, and contact our office at 805-563-4404 if you have any questions or concerns about your recovery.

At Home After Your Surgery

• Use Stellalife liquid/gel as directed.
• Apply additional gauze to the surgical area if needed.

Your First 24 Hours After Surgery

Discomfort

• Some discomfort is normal once the anesthesia wears off. Begin taking your prescribed pain medication before the numbness completely disappears, and stay ahead of the discomfort.
• Always read the medication insert for maximum daily dosage.
• Take antibiotics exactly as prescribed. To reduce nausea or stomach irritation, take your medication with food.
• If pain worsens or medications cause problems, call our office.

Rest

• Give your body time to heal by resting as much as possible.
• Keep your head slightly elevated while lying down.

Protecting the Surgical Area

• Avoid disturbing the surgical site — this is critical for proper healing.
• Do not chew, brush, or floss near the surgical area.
• Do not spit forcefully, rinse vigorously, or use a straw.
• Avoid excessive talking, smiling, or pulling on your lips and cheeks.
• Do not touch the site with your tongue, fingers, or objects.

Sedation

• Do not drive or operate machinery for at least 12 hours, or longer if any sedation effects remain.

Reducing Bruising & Swelling

• Apply ice packs (or a bag of frozen peas) to the area at 15–20 minute intervals during the first 48 hours.
• Keep your head elevated for the first 3 days.
• Stay hydrated and limit caffeine or sugar intake.
• Consider arnica supplements to help reduce swelling and bruising.
• Avoid blood-thinning supplements (fish oil, vitamin E, St. John’s Wort) for at least 2 days.
• Limit foods high in salicylates (green peppers, tomatoes, olives, radish, berries, dates, guava, raisins) during the first 2 days.
• Absolutely do not smoke or use e-cigarettes for 2–3 weeks before and after surgery, as this delays healing and increases complications.

Bleeding

• Mild bleeding or oozing is normal for the first 24–48 hours.
• Place a moist sterile gauze over the site and apply firm pressure for about 1 hour to help create a natural clot.
• If bleeding continues, apply gentle pressure with a moistened black tea bag for 30 minutes.
• Never sleep with gauze or a tea bag in your mouth.
• If bleeding persists, call our office.

Diet & Hydration

• During the first 1–2 days, stick to clear liquids, protein shakes, broth, or smoothies.
• Avoid hot or very cold drinks for the first 2 hours after surgery.
• Soft or blended foods are best. Avoid nuts, seeds, popcorn, and other foods that may lodge in the surgical area.
• Avoid spicy or citrus foods and beverages.
• If diabetic, maintain your normal diet as much as possible and follow your physician’s insulin guidance.

Oral Hygiene

• Do not brush, floss, or use irrigation devices (like a Waterpik®) near the surgical area until cleared.
• Do not swish or use astringent rinses.
• Begin using recommended oral solutions (liquid, gel, spray) 12 hours after surgery.

Medications

• Take antibiotics as prescribed.
• Pain medication should be taken regularly during the first 2 days.
• Continue your regular prescribed medications (blood pressure, diabetes, etc.) unless told otherwise by your physician.

Activity & Recovery Time

• Avoid strenuous activity and exercise for at least 24–48 hours.
• Overexertion in the first week may increase swelling, bruising, and delay healing.
• Avoid swimming or high-intensity activities for one week.
• Minimize excessive lip movement.
• Wear any prescribed appliance for 4–6 hours as directed.