Here at Beacon Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, we understand that surgeries can disrupt your everyday schedule. Most of us just want to know when we can get back to our regular routines after a surgery, and it is common to be curious about the post-surgery experience. For your convenience, we came up with some great tips to prepare you for your surgery and ensure you receive not only optimal results for your oral health, but also a positive post-surgery experience. With these tips, you’ll be ready for treatment and on your way to a brighter, healthier smile!
Tips:
- Strategic Scheduling – We understand that people have responsibilities they’d like to resume as soon as possible following surgery, but giving yourself an adequate recovery window is key to a quick recovery. Trying to resume normal activities too soon can cause complications that just aren’t worth the risk. Luckily, the vast majority of our procedures are outpatient and require minimal recovery time. Try to pick a surgery date around a holiday weekend where you’ll have an extra day off, or a week when you know you will be able to relax and recover without issue. We are happy to work around your schedule and find a time that works best for you to recover properly.
- Stock Up on Food – It is common after most surgeries to be slightly swollen or sore, and in these situations, it is strongly recommended that you eat soft foods to avoid complications with the surgical sites. If you received anesthetics, you will also be unable to drive after your surgery. Rather than asking someone to bring you food or settling for hard foods that could potentially slow the healing process, visit the grocery store the night before your procedure. Stock up on your favorite soft foods like applesauce, mashed potatoes, oatmeal, nutritional drinks, and soups. Planning ahead will allow you to avoid resorting to hard foods or going hungry because you weren’t prepared.
- Have Something to Do Post-Surgery – In addition to acquiring your favorite soft foods to eat after surgery, you’ll also want to plan some different activities to do until you can resume your regular daily routine. Find yourself some interesting books, movies, puzzles, and games to keep you occupied and entertained while you recover from your procedure. Keeping yourself busy in a way that won’t put too much stress on your body post-surgery will make your recovery time seem shorter and help chase away any temptations to do activities that may delay the healing process.
We want your recovery to be as successful as possible, but we also hope to cause as little interference with your routine as possible. With these tips, we feel you have the best chance at optimal results and a positive recovery experience. It’s always a good idea to discuss your recovery time and specific pre- and post-operative instructions with your oral surgeon. If you have any more questions about your post-surgery condition, or would like to schedule an appointment with us, please feel free to contact our office.