Post-operative care is important following surgery, and recovery may be delayed if this is neglected.
- Monitor Vitals: HR, BP, Respiratory Rate, Sats, Temp
- Medications as charted: Antibiotics and analgesics will be prescribed. Please take as directed.
- Eye Observations: Visual acuity, pupil reaction, movement in eye
- Q15mins x 2hrs
- Q30mins x 2hrs
- Q2hrs until morning ward round or doctor phones ~07:00hrs
- Urgent signs to contact Dr Huang (0417-160-887):
- Decrease in visual acuity
- Eye pain not relieved with medication
- Tense, protruding eye (proptosis)
- Inability to move eye
- Nurse in 30–45° head-up position
- Ice packs to face:
- Gently and frequently during first 12 hours to reduce swelling
- Iced gauze may be placed on the closed affected eye
- Expect limited mouth opening and bruising as swelling subsides
- No pressure to side of surgery
- Diet: Soft diet for 2–3 days post-surgery
- Oral hygiene:
- Start rinsing from day 2
- Use Chlorhexidine 0.2% (Savacol or Oral B Plaqacide)
- Or warm salt water (1 tsp salt in 1 glass warm water), 3× daily for 1 week
- Brush teeth gently in unaffected areas
- Apply Vaseline to lips for first 2 days
- Stitches/Sutures: Most are dissolvable and will disappear within 1–2 weeks
- Other activities:
- Avoid driving/machinery for 24 hrs after sedation/GA
- No alcohol or smoking for at least 3 days
- Return to School/Work: Will be advised based on surgery and occupation. Medical certificate provided.
- Other issues: Temporary sore throat, difficulty swallowing or muscle pain may occur due to anaesthesia
- Urgent Contact for Dr Huang:
- Phone: (02) 9262-9318 (business hours)
- Email: admin@vintagesurgicalspecialists.com.au
- Leave voicemail (no texts)
- After hours: Present to hospital Emergency and ask for the Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Registrar for Dr Huang:
- Westmead Hospital Emergency
- Prince of Wales Hospital Emergency
- Sydney Children’s Hospital Emergency
