POST OP FACIAL FRACTURE CARE

You will be given a pain control medication to manage any significant pain you might have. Often you will be able to control most discomfort by using “over the counter” pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, etc.)

Significant facial swelling should be anticipating following your oral surgery. Generally it will decrease within one week to the point where it will not be noticeable to anyone but yourself, family and possibly close acquaintances. During your surgery, steps are taken to minimize the swelling. The head of your bed should be kept elevated after surgery and this position should be maintained while you are lying down for about 10 days. It is generally easier for you to bend your mattress by placing something solid under the “head” of the mattress instead of trying to sleep upright with pillows.

Ice packs will be placed on each side of your face as you awake from surgery. These are reusable and you will need to use ice packs for the next few days. After the second day, they generally will not be of any value in controlling the swelling but some people like them for comfort. Mild heat to your face can be started after the fifth day and this will assist in resolving the swelling. A heating pad or warm wash cloth can be used at 20‐30 minute intervals for this purpose.

Every attempt will be made to minimize the chance of nausea. The two most common causes of nausea are either swallowing some blood after surgery or the use of a narcotic pain medication. If you start having any feeling of nausea, you can decrease the chances of problems if you follow some simple rules.

• Stay down – movement, especially walking around, will increase the likelihood of nausea.
• Drink clear fluids or possibly lightly carbonated beverages such as “Seven‐Up”.
• Stop taking any narcotic pain medications and try using “over the counter” medications.

If there is no relief, call Dr. Patel as soon as possible.

You should attempt to drink liquids the first few days. While this is sometimes difficult, this early effort will help speed your recovery. Generally, your diet during the first few days, while the swelling is at its worst, will be limited to liquids and very soft foods (consistency of applesauce). Then as swelling diminishes, firmer foods, such as pasta, bread or rice, can be attempted. Hard foods, the consistency of raw carrots or a whole apple, should be avoided until Dr. Patel approves. It is most important, whether you are taking liquid or soft diet, that the meals are nutritionally well balanced. Dietary information is available from our office.