Key Pre-Operative Guidelines (Summary)

Anesthesia Options:

• Local only: No fasting; you may drive yourself home.
• Local with sedation: No food/drink for 3 hours before surgery. A responsible adult must drive you home; rideshares are not permitted.

Medications: Stop aspirin, NSAIDs, vitamin E, and blood-thinning supplements as directed.

Lifestyle: Reduce/stop nicotine 4 weeks before/after; reduce alcohol 2 weeks before/after.

Day of Surgery:

• Shower the morning of surgery; avoid lotions, creams, or deodorants.
• No makeup or skincare products.
• Remove jewelry/piercings from the neck up.
• Wear loose, comfortable, front-opening clothing.

Suggested Supplies:

• Tylenol (acetaminophen)
• Alcohol-free, gentle mouthwash
• Soft foods (smoothies, mashed potatoes, soups)

Key Post-Operative Guidelines (Summary)

Diet: Avoid sharp/granular foods (rice, chips, couscous) that can irritate the mouth. Stick to smooth, soft foods during initial healing.

Hydration: Drink plenty of water; limit caffeine and alcohol.

Oral Hygiene:

• Days 1–5: Rinse with gentle mouthwash after meals.
• Days 6–10: Switch to lukewarm salt water rinses after meals.

Cold Therapy (optional): Ice for 15–20 min on / 40+ min off during the first 48–72 hours to reduce swelling.

Dental Procedures: Avoid dental work for 3 months before and after surgery.

Activity: Walk gently after surgery; avoid strenuous exercise until cleared.

Lifestyle: No nicotine for at least 4 weeks after surgery.

What to Expect

• Mild swelling, bruising, and tenderness inside the mouth for several days.
• Dimple appearance may look deeper or uneven at first but will settle as healing progresses.