Key Pre-Operative Guidelines (Summary)

Anesthesia Options:

• Local Anesthesia Only: No fasting required. You may drive yourself home.
• Local Anesthesia with Sedation: Do not eat or drink (including water, mints, or gum) for 3 hours before surgery. A responsible adult must drive you home.

Medications: Discontinue aspirin, NSAIDs, anticoagulants, and herbal supplements (like vitamin E, fish oil, garlic) as directed (typically 2–3 weeks prior).

Lifestyle Adjustments: Cease smoking (including e-cigarettes) 4 weeks before surgery and limit alcohol intake for at least 2 weeks.

Day of Surgery:

• Shower the night before or morning of surgery.
• Do not apply lotions, perfumes, deodorant, or makeup.
• Wear loose, front-opening clothing.
• If needed, shave the chin area 3 days prior to surgery.

Suggested Supplies:

• Tylenol (acetaminophen)
• Alcohol-free mouthwash
• Straws
• Crushed ice (optional)

Key Post-Operative Guidelines (Summary)

Pain Management: Use Tylenol (acetaminophen) as directed. Narcotic pain medication and anti-nausea medication may be prescribed.

Antibiotics: Complete the full course, even if symptoms improve.

Mobility: Begin light walking the day after surgery to promote circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.

Showering: May resume the day after surgery unless otherwise instructed.

Swimming & Baths: Avoid soaking in tubs, hot tubs, and pools until incisions are fully healed (typically 2 weeks).

Oral Care: Rinse twice daily with alcohol-free mouthwash for the first two weeks to minimize infection risk.

Return to Work: Most patients return to work within 5–7 days, depending on job responsibilities.

Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activity, contact sports, or vigorous exercise for 6–8 weeks.