Patient Instructions
Clear care, before and after surgery.
These general instructions help you prepare for your visit and recover comfortably. You will receive personalized written instructions specific to your procedure.
Before your procedure
- If you will receive IV sedation or general anesthesia, do not eat or drink anything for at least 8 hours before your appointment unless directed otherwise.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing with short sleeves.
- Bring a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for several hours after sedation.
- Take prescribed medications as instructed; bring a current medication list.
After surgery
- Apply ice to the outside of your face in 20-minute intervals for the first 24 hours.
- Eat soft, cool foods for the first 24 to 48 hours and gradually advance as tolerated.
- Avoid drinking through a straw, smoking, or vigorous rinsing for at least 72 hours.
- Take pain medication as prescribed; most patients use over-the-counter medication after the first day or two.
- Sleep with your head slightly elevated for the first night.
When to call us
- Bleeding that does not slow with steady gauze pressure for 60 minutes.
- Severe pain not controlled by your prescribed medication.
- Fever above 101°F or signs of infection.
- Any concern, day or night — call 925-934-7888.
Next step
Have a question right now?
Our team is available during office hours and on-call after hours for urgent post-operative concerns.