Instructions Following
Sinus Elevation Procedure
- When anesthesia wears off, you may experience slight discomfort, readily controlled with Ibuprofen or Tylenol. A prescription will be given in case of a more moderate discomfort, please take as directed. Start pain relievers before your anesthesia wears off and continue taking the medication only as necessary to prevent discomfort.
- Small amounts of blood may discolor your saliva during the first 24 hours. This is normal. Do not rinse vigorously, spit, suck on straws, smoke or drink alcohol during the first 48-72 hours. If some bleeding continues, apply a moistened tea bag, covered with a piece of gauze and compress the area firmly for 30 min. Do not take it out to check it during this time. Also, remain sitting or standing, do not lay down. You may have to repeat this several times. If bleeding does not stop please call our office.
- Swelling may occur after the procedure. Placing an ice-pack on the outside of your face adjacent to the treated area can minimize swelling. Alternating 20 min. on and 20 min. off starting the day of surgery is recommended. Stop icing 24 hours after the surgery. At the end of this time, if there is any swelling, hot compresses will help reduce it faster.
- Avoid aggressive pressure from your nose; nose blowing, scuba diving and flying an airplane should be cut down to the bare minimum for 4 weeks after the surgery. If you find that you need to blow your nose within the 4 weeks post-surgery, please take an over the counter Antihistamine (nothing into the nose area, only oral medications). Avoid aggressive sneezing; try to muffle your sneezes, the less pressure in the sinus area the better for 4 weeks.
- Do not brush or floss the area of the surgery, but maintain optimal oral hygiene in the rest of your mouth. Rinse twice a day with the Peridex oral rinse, starting 24 hours after of the surgery.
- Please take your prescribed antibiotic until it is completely finished. If you are currently taking oral contraceptive medication please beware that any antibiotics taken can interfere with the birth control for one full cycle.
- Avoid physical exertion this week, especially during the first 2 days, since this will increase blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the surgical site.
- A well-balanced diet is necessary during healing. This should consist of liquids and soft foods. Please see the reverse side for examples of recommended food.
- Call the office if you experience extreme pain, bleeding or swelling, or if you have any further questions.