Closely following post-operative instructions following your sinus lift is critical to avoid complications and speed up the healing process. One of the most important aftercare instructions is that you must not blow your nose following the procedure for at least four weeks. It is also important to avoid sneezing if possible. If a sneeze cannot be helped, open your mouth while doing so.
Additional aftercare instructions following your sinus lift include:
- Gauze pads should be kept over the surgical area and changed every thirty minutes until the bleeding stops, which it usually does within one hour. Prior to placing the new gauze, first moisten with cold water and squeeze the gauze until it is damp. If bleeding does not subside or stop, contact your dentist.
- Avoid touching the wound and vigorous mouth rinsing.
- Take antibiotics or pain medications as prescribed to avoid infection and reduce discomfort. If the pain is mild, Tylenol can be taken every three to four hours, or 800mg of Ibuprofen can be taken for moderate pain. If narcotics are prescribed to manage severe pain, you may experience side effects, such as grogginess or nausea.
- It is important to avoid alcoholic beverages and/or operating any motor vehicles while taking this medication.
- Ice packs can be placed on the side of your face to reduce swelling, which may occur on the sides of your face, eyes, cheeks, and mouth. Swelling typically peaks on the second or third day, after which it should begin to subside. When placing the ice packs, do not leave on for longer than twenty minutes at a time.
- Rest as much as possible following the procedure, ideally 7-10 days, after which you can begin to resume normal activities.
- Do not use a straw or smoke for at least three to four days.
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Avoid chewing over the surgical site and limit your food intake for the first few days following the procedure. As you begin to heal, you can reintroduce more foods, but hold off on hot foods and harder foods or foods that may get stuck in the surgical site, like potato chips, sunflower seeds, popcorn, etc.
It is important to continue practicing good oral hygiene, but make sure you are not rinsing to forcefully. Instead, gently swirl water in your mouth then let it drip out. Spitting the water out too forcefully may cause bleeding to return. After eating, a warm water rinse should be done. While brushing your teeth, do so gently on the surgical areas, ideally with a soft toothbrush. It is generally recommended to not use a WaterPik in the surgical area until the healing process is complete.
Patients who adhere to aftercare instructions will generally not develop issues and enjoy a fast recovery process. If you are experiencing pain that seems excessive or are concerned that your healing process is not progressing as it should, contact your dentist for further instructions.