Sinus lift post-op instructions

Take your medications as directed by your doctor. (These medications might include: antibiotics, analgesics, anti-inflammatory medications, Peridex®, Afrin®, Sudafed®, and others.)

Avoid smoking.

Do not blow your nose for 2 weeks (this could create positive pressure, which could spread air though confluent soft tissue planes, creating soft tissue emphysema). Avoid sucking liquid through a straw (because this creates negative intrasinus pressure). Try not to sneeze or cough. If sneezing or coughing is unavoidable, it must be done with the mouth open to decrease internal sinus pressure.

Some nasal bleeding (oozing of blood through the nose) may occur during the first day. Swelling, pain, and ecchymosis are expected.

Get plenty of rest.

For 24 hours after surgery, place light pressure and ice on the surgical site.

First the first 2 to 3 nights, keep the head elevated on two or more pillows. (This will prevent airway obstruction or aspiration of blood and heavy saliva and will diminish edema.)

Maintain a liquid diet for the first 2 days (Carnation Instant Breakfast®, Meritene®, and Ensure® are recommended), then consume only soft foods (the consistency of mashed potatoes or scrambled eggs) following the second day and for at least 2 weeks (until the mucosal incision has closed completely).

Do not wear any type of dental prosthesis for 2 weeks.

Do not lift or pull on lip to look at sutures.

Return for a postoperative check-up in 1 week and suture removal in 2 weeks Call/notify us if:

• You feel granules in your nose.
• Your medications do not relieve discomfort.
• You have questions.