Key Pre-Operative Guidelines (Summary)

Fasting:

• No food or drink, including water, mints, or gum, for 8 hours before surgery.

Transportation:

• Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for 1–2 days. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) are not permitted.

Medications:

• Stop aspirin, NSAIDs, herbal supplements, and blood-thinning or weight-loss medications as directed.
• Discuss all prescription medications (especially for blood pressure or diabetes) with your surgeon.
• Avoid nicotine for 4 weeks before and after surgery and reduce alcohol for 2 weeks before and after.

Day of Surgery:

• Shower using soap; avoid applying lotions, perfumes, or products to your skin afterward.
• Remove all jewelry and piercings.
• Wear a loose, front-opening top that does not pull over the head.

Suggested Supplies:

• Tylenol (acetaminophen)
• Ice packs or cold compresses (wrapped in a soft cloth)
• Soft foods (smoothies, soups, yogurt)
• Optional: Humidifier for throat comfort

Key Post-Operative Guidelines (Summary)

Pain & Nausea:

• Use Tylenol for mild pain; avoid NSAIDs unless directed.
• Narcotic pain medication and anti-nausea medication (Zofran) may be prescribed.
• Take stool softeners or laxatives with narcotic medication to prevent constipation.

Antibiotics:

• Complete the full prescribed course to prevent infection.

Diet & Hydration:

• Stick to soft, cool foods for several days. Avoid hot, spicy, or acidic foods that may irritate the throat.
• Drink plenty of cool water to stay hydrated and keep the throat comfortable.
• Limit caffeine and avoid alcohol for the first week.

Voice Care:

• Rest your voice as much as possible for the first week.
• Avoid whispering, shouting, singing, or prolonged talking for at least 2 weeks.
• Strenuous voice use (e.g., teaching, public speaking, singing) should be avoided for 4–6 weeks or until cleared by your surgeon.

Cold Therapy (optional):

• Begin within 24 hours to help reduce swelling.
• Apply cool compresses for 15–20 minutes at a time, then remove for 40+ minutes.
• Always place a soft cloth between the ice and skin—never apply ice directly to your neck.

Incision Care:

• Keep incisions clean and dry. Gently cleanse with mild soap and water once daily or as directed.
• Pat dry—do not scrub or apply pressure.
• All stitches are absorbable and do not require removal.
• Protect the scar from sun exposure for 6 months using SPF 30+ or clothing once cleared.

Activity:

• Sleep with your head elevated (2–3 pillows or a wedge pillow) to reduce swelling.
• Avoid bending your neck forward for long periods during the first week.
• Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least 2 weeks.
• You may resume light walking immediately to promote circulation.
• Driving is safe once you are no longer taking prescription pain medication and can turn your head comfortably (usually within 1–2 weeks).

Bathing & Swimming:

• You may shower once cleared by your surgeon.
• Avoid swimming or submerging in water until incisions are fully healed—usually 2 weeks.
• Wait at least 1 month before using hot tubs, which carry a higher risk of bacteria.

What to Expect:

• Mild swelling and tenderness in the surgical area are normal for several days.
• Bruising and throat tightness gradually improve over 1–2 weeks.
• Final neck contour and scar fading continue over 6–12 months.