INSTRUCTIONS AFTER LOCAL ANAESTHETIC

Pain Relief

When the local anaesthetic wears off, there may be some discomfort. It can be relieved by taking pain relivers that do not contain aspirin, such as Panadol, Panadeine or Di-Gesic. Take 2 Panadol tablets every 6 hours if needed but be sure not to have more than 8 Panadol in any 24 hour period. If pain continues or becomes more severe, seek medical advice.

Bleeding

If slight bleeding occurs from the operative site,, apply firm pressure with a clean pad or handkerchief for ten minutes. If bleeding continues, seek medical advice.

Anaesthetic

The local anaesthetic takes between 1 and 3 hours to wear off and you will experience numbness, pins and needles as this happens. When surgery is performed on the lips or inside the mouth, take special care with hot drinks and food until all the numbness has gone, so that you do not burn your lips or mouth.

Dressings

If your dressing is on the face or head, you may take a shower when you get home taking care not to soak the wound although it may get wet. Be sure to dry it by dabbing gently with a towel or use a blow dryer set on low heat.

With facial surgery, an antibiotic cream is sometimes prescribed. Apply cream to the wound three times a day. Your surgeon will issue specific instructions on your dressings.

Do’s and Don’t’s

• Do not smoke or expose yourself to cigarette smoke until after your next appointment. Smoking is very detrimental to blood supply of your skin and impairs healing.
• Do not undertake any strenuous work or sporting activity until after your next appointment.

Your stitches are due to come out ............................................................................................................
Your next appointment with Dr. .................................................................... will be on ..........................

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