POST OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS - ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY

Following general anaesthesic, 24 to 36 hours are required for the full effects of the drugs to wear off. During this period, it is essential that you follow these instructions.

DISCHARGE FROM HOSPITAL

You must be discharged into the care of a responsible adult who can accompany you home.
Arrangements should be made to have a responsible adult remain with you for the balance of the day and during the night..

FOOD AND BEVERAGES

Clear liquids are advised for at least 6 hours. Avoid hot fluids for the first 24 hours.
Remain on a pureed diet for a period of 4 weeks. No chewing.
It is important to drink 1 ? litres of fluid every 24 hours.
Do not drink alcohol in any form for 48 hours after surgery.

MEDICATIONS

You will be prescribed a pain reliever, antiobiotic and oral mouth rinse to commence after surgery. Please follow the directions as prescribed.
Should you have any adverse reactions to any of the medications, kindly contact the office.

SWELLING/BLEEDING

Swelling is common after this surgery for 1-2 weeks. For the first 48 hours place an ice pack on your cheeks for 10 - 20 minutes every 2 - 3 hours. (Do not put ice in direct contact with the skin).
48 hours after surgery, we suggest switching to warm moist heat (hot, wet facecloth, hot water bottle, heating pad, microwaveable pack).
Sleep or rest with your head raised on two pillows for the first 4 days.
Some modest discharge from the nose is normal. Do not be concerned with minor nasal bleeding for the first 3-5 days following your surgery. Active nasal bleeding which persists for greater than 5 minutes should be evaluated. Please contact Dr. Sowden immediately should this occur.

ORAL HYGIENE

Rinse with warm salt water after each oral intake (10 - 20 times per day).
Brush the outside of the teeth/wires/splint 3 times per day with toothpaste.

DRESSING

You may remove the dressing (tape) after 3 days. Until then, leave dry.

ACTIVITY RESTRICTIONS

No heavy lifting or bending during the first 72 hours.
Do not operative motor vehicles, boats, power tools or machinery for 18 hours or longer if drowsiness or dizziness persists.
Do not operate an aircraft for at least 48 hours following general anaesthetic.
Do not sign or enter into any legal contract for at least 24 hours.
Do not engage in work or work related activities for the remainder of the day.

FOLLOW UP

You will see Dr. Sowden one week after surgery and will followed regularly until your have completely healed.

If you have any questions or problems, call our office at 604 924-8088. There is always an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon on call for emergencies.