Post-Operative Instructions For Biopsy

Home Care Instructions For Biopsies

Day of Surgery

• Patients with IV sedation/general anesthesia should return home immediately after discharge and have a responsible adult stay with them for 24 hours.
• Avoid driving, swimming, making important decisions, or drinking alcohol for 24 hours.

Steps to Recovery

• If bleeding persists after one hour, apply new gauze and pressure for 20 minutes.
• Keep the head elevated for 48 hours.
• Apply ice for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off for the first 24 hours.
• Start rinsing with saltwater 24 hours after surgery, six times a day for three weeks.
• Follow a soft foods diet for five to seven days, avoiding straws.

Aftercare

• Some sutures dissolve in one to seven days; others are removed at follow-up.
• Contact our office for fever, increased pain/swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing.
• Contact 911 if there is swelling of the throat or difficulty breathing.
• Avoid smoking and using Waterpiks.
• Take antibiotics exactly as prescribed and separately from pain medication.
• Monitor pain medication use, storing them properly and disposing of them after treatment.

Note: Follow-up with prescribed pain medication if over-the-counter options are ineffective.

Frequently Asked Questions After Having An Oral Biopsy

When can I start brushing my teeth?

You may brush the day after surgery, being careful to avoid the surgical sites.

When should I use the rinses?

Begin using the salt water rinse 24 hours after surgery, six times a day for the next three weeks: once after each meal and once in between. If prescribed a special rinse, start using it 24 hours after surgery.

How soon can I engage in strenuous activity?

We suggest avoiding strenuous activities like exercise for 5 to 7 days after surgery.

How long will I be numb after the procedure?

Loss of sensation to the chin and lip is common and usually disappears after a few days or weeks. If numbness persists beyond 24 hours after surgery, please contact our office.

Do I have to take all the pain medication?

No, you can take over-the-counter pain medication if you feel nausea or vomiting after taking the prescription medicine.