Biopsy Post-Op Instructions
Bleeding
Bleeding after surgery may continue for several hours. Apply pressure with a moist gauze pad placed directly on the bleeding wound for 30-60 minutes to control bleeding. Pink or blood-tinged saliva may be seen for 2-3 days following the procedure and does not indicate a problem.
Swelling
Swelling occurs naturally after surgery. The swelling will not become apparent until the day following surgery and reaches its maximum 2-3 days following surgery. Apply an ice pack to the outside of the face over the area of surgery 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off while awake for the first 24 hours to minimize swelling. Begin use of a warm, moist compress to the cheek 48 hours after the surgery.
Pain
You should begin taking pain medication while still numb. For moderate pain, 1 or 2 Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) may be taken every 4 hours. Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol may be taken instead of Ibuprofen. Ibuprofen, over the counter is 200 mg. Two to three tablets of Ibuprofen may be taken every 4 hours as needed for pain unless contraindicated due to medication (i.e. Coumadin). For severe pain, the prescribed medication should be taken as directed.
Activity
Keep physical activities to a minimum immediately following procedure. After the first 48 hours, you may resume activity as tolerated
If your treatment requires a specimen sent for a pathological examination, you will be asked to return for a follow-up appointment to discuss the results with your doctor. Biopsy results will typically be available 7-10 days following the procedure.
Oral Hygiene
Maintaining your mouth clean are essential to good healing. Make sure to clean your mouth thoroughly after each meal. You may rinse with plain water or salt water 2-3 times a day.
Diet
Drink plenty of fluids and eat soft foods on the day of surgery. While numb, patients should avoid hot liquids and foods. Patients may have applesauce, pudding or Jello. After numbness subsides patients can progress to solid foods, chewing away from the surgical sites.
Foods To Drink And Eat While Numb
AVOID carbonated beverages and hot liquids for 48 hours
Drink:
- Water
- Juice
- Ice Chips
- Popsicles
- Milkshake (no straw)
Eat:
- Applesauce
- Jell-O
- Pudding
- Popsicles
- Yogurt
Soft Foods When Numbness is Gone:
- Mashed Potatoes
- Pasta
- Eggs
- Pancakes
- Creamed Cereal
- Soup (not to hot)
Galesburg: Click here to download biopsy post-op care instructions
Peoria: Click here to download biopsy post-op care instructions
At Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, we know how to help you. Our board-certified surgeons and expert staff can provide the care you need to relieve the discomfort you feel.
