Maxillofacial surgery: operative instructions
Dr. Aurélie Daelemans
You will soon benefit from a procedure
To ensure everything goes smoothly, here is some information you need to know before and after your operation. Important note: instructions vary depending on the location of your procedure.
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If your procedure takes place in a hospital, strict fasting is essential before anesthesia (see details below).
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If your procedure takes place in the office, you do not need to fast. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment.
The detailed instructions below pertain to procedures performed in the hospital. For procedures performed in the office, please refer to the specific documents at the bottom of the page.
Before your procedure at the hospital
Type of anesthesia planned : general or sedation, depending on what was agreed upon with you during the consultation.
In the 8 days preceding
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Try to reduce, or even stop, your tobacco consumption.
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Stop taking aspirin or Asaflow.
The day before the operation
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Eat your last meal in the evening, and then do not eat again.
The day
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Strict fasting: no food, no drink, not even a little water.
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In the morning, brush your teeth at home and rinse your mouth with an antiseptic solution such as Corsodyl.
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Follow the usual hospital instructions: no makeup, no nail polish, arrange for someone to accompany you.
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Wear loose-fitting clothes that are easy to put on and take off.
After the procedure
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Someone must accompany you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours.
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Do not drive a vehicle for 24 hours after anesthesia.
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Avoid signing important documents during this period.
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No alcohol.
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Keep your phone handy, just in case.
What to expect after this type of surgery
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Some pain, manageable with prescribed medication.
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Facial swelling and temporary difficulty opening the mouth.
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A slight risk of bleeding.
Nothing to worry about in itself, but here's how to limit these inconveniences:
To recover properly
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Rest on the day of the operation and the following night, in a semi-sitting position (two pillows).
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Apply a cold pack to your cheeks for the first 6 hours.
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Avoid rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours.
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In case of bleeding: gently clean with a dry compress, then bite down firmly on two compresses for 30 minutes.
Food
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You will be able to drink again 4 hours after the procedure, once the anesthesiologist gives the go-ahead.
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That same evening, opt for a light and cold meal.
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The next day, switch to a soft, lukewarm diet.
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In the following days, adjust accordingly: swelling and pain vary from person to person.
Drugs
You will receive a prescription upon discharge, which will include, depending on your situation: antibiotics, painkillers and/or anti-inflammatories.
Oral hygiene
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Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic solution (Eludril or Corsodyl) after each meal, 3 times a day, for 10 days.
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Resume brushing your teeth the next day, using only an ultra-soft bristle brush (no electric brush for now).
Are you having surgery at the clinic?
Fasting is not necessary. All other post-operative instructions remain valid. Please also follow the instructions given during your consultation regarding your medications.
Find the information sheets specific to your intervention: