Immediately After Surgery - Go home and rest. Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for 48 hours. Keep your tongue moving to prevent muscle tightness. For the first 5 days, perform gentle Caves, Point & Trace exercises several times daily.
Discomfort & Muscle Adjustment - Discomfort in the jaw, face, neck, and upper back is expected. You will have pain for 5-6 days after surgery. You may also experience radiating ear pain, a sore throat, or a burning or sensitive tongue during healing.
Medications & Cold Therapy - Take medications as prescribed by your doctor. If they are not adequately controlling your discomfort, contact your doctor. Cold drinks, crushed ice, popsicles, and ice cream can help with swelling and discomfort.
Stitches - Stitches typically dissolve on their own around days 5–7. The knot may remain and can sometimes be gently massaged out. If a stitch comes out, keep the area as clean as possible.
Eating & Drinking - Eat a soft diet with small bites while your tongue relearns how to manipulate food. Avoid sharp, acidic, spicy foods and small seeds. Minimize salt, as it may increase swelling. Do not use straws. Practice proper swallowing: teeth together, lips relaxed, and tongue on the palate/“spot.”
Bleeding & Healing - Slight bleeding or oozing is normal initially. After a few days, you may notice a yellowish or greenish layer over the surgical site. This is normal and acts like a “wet scab.”
If you have any questions regarding the above information or are unclear about any aspect of your post-operative care, please contact our office.