1. Bleeding
Light oozing and salivary discolouration are normal. Keep a mouth pack (gauze) in place with firm pressure for at least 15 minutes post-op.
If bleeding continues, change the gauze every 30 minutes until it stops.
Avoid sucking or excessive spitting, and do not rinse your mouth on the day of surgery.
2. Discomfort/Pain
Take prescribed pain relief as directed. Discomfort should ease after 2–3 days.
3. Swelling
Normal post-surgery, peaking at 24–48 hours and subsiding by day 4–5.
Use ice packs frequently in the first 12 hours to minimise swelling.
Mouth opening may be limited and bruising may appear as swelling subsides.
4. Rest
Rest in bed for the first 24 hours post-op.
5. Diet
Stick to fluids and soft foods for the first three days. Stay well-hydrated.
6. Oral Hygiene
Begin rinsing the day after surgery. Rinse at least 3 times daily using:
- Chlorhexidine 0.2% (Savacol, Oral B Plaqacide)
- Warm salt water (1 tsp salt to a glass of warm water)
Brush non-surgical areas and apply Vaseline or petroleum jelly to lips for the first two days.
7. Stitches/Sutures
Dissolving stitches will typically fall out within 1–2 weeks.
8. Medications
Take antibiotics and pain relief as prescribed. Not all patients will be prescribed antibiotics, as IV antibiotics are given during surgery.
9. Activities
Avoid driving or operating machinery for 24 hours post sedation/anaesthesia.
Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 3 days post-op.10.
10. Return to School/Work
This depends on the surgery and your job. A medical certificate will be provided.
11. Other Symptoms
Temporary sore throat, muscle pain or swallowing difficulty may result from anaesthesia.
12. Contact Dr Huang if you experience
- Persistent bleeding
- Pain that increases or lasts beyond 4–5 days
- Increased facial swelling after 4–5 days
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
13. Urgent Contact
- Phone: (02) 9262-9318 (business hours)
- Email: admin@vintagesurgicalspecialists.com.au
- Medical Emergencies Only: Leave a voice message for Dr Huang
- Do NOT send text messages
- If urgent after hours, go to:
- Westmead Hospital Emergency
- Prince of Wales Hospital Emergency
- Sydney Children’s Hospital Emergency
