Post-Operative Instructions

Overview

Following Instructions Supports a Smooth Recovery

Every procedure is different, and Dr. Tolley will give you instructions specific to your treatment before you leave our office. The guidance below covers what most patients can expect in the days following oral or facial surgery.

Personalized instructions provided after your procedure
Our office is available with any questions
Follow-up visits scheduled as needed

Patient smiling during a follow-up visit

24 hrs Rest & Ice

Head elevated, ice applied as directed

2–3 Days to Peak Swelling

It gets better after this, not worse

1 Week Soft Foods

And no strenuous activity or heavy lifting

0 Straws or Smoking

Both can dislodge the clot and stall healing

At a Glance

The Short Version

What normal recovery looks like, so you can tell when something isn’t.

Request a Consultation Call (850) 738-1349

Bleeding

Oozing is normal at firstGentle pressure on gauze; call if it doesn’t settle

Swelling

Peaks on day two or threeIce for the first 24 hours, then it eases

Pain

Stay ahead of itTake medication as prescribed — don’t wait for it to build

Driving

Not on sedation dayAnd not while taking prescription pain medication

Recovery Timeline

What to Expect, Day by Day

Recovery is a sequence. Knowing the shape of it is what keeps normal from feeling alarming.

First 24 Hours

Rest and Ice

Rest with your head elevated and apply ice as directed. Avoid rinsing or spitting forcefully — both can dislodge the clot that’s doing the healing.

Days 2–3

Swelling Peaks

This is the part that surprises people: swelling usually peaks now rather than on day one, then starts to improve. Keep taking any prescribed medication as directed.

First Week

Soft Foods, Easy Days

Stick to soft foods, skip strenuous activity and heavy lifting, and attend your follow-up visit if one is scheduled.

Ongoing

Back to Normal

Resume normal activity as advised. If anything feels like it’s heading the wrong way rather than the right one, call us — that’s what we’re here for.

Caring for Yourself

Diet & Activity: What Helps, What to Avoid

Do

Stick to soft, cool foods for the first few days
Stay hydrated with water
Rest with your head elevated
Take medication exactly as prescribed
Apply ice packs to manage swelling

Avoid

Using a straw for the first few days
Smoking or tobacco use
Vigorous exercise or heavy lifting
Hard, crunchy, or spicy foods
Skipping follow-up appointments

Important

When to Call Our Office

Most recoveries are uneventful. Call us at (850) 738-1349 right away if you notice any of these — we’d far rather hear from you early. For a medical emergency, such as difficulty breathing or swallowing or uncontrolled bleeding, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

Bleeding That Won’t Settle

Some oozing is normal at first. Bleeding that doesn’t improve with gentle pressure on gauze is not.

Fever Above 101°F

A raised temperature after surgery can signal infection and should be checked.

Pain or Swelling Increasing

After the first few days both should be easing. Getting worse instead of better is worth a call.

A Reaction to Medication

Rash, nausea, or anything unexpected after a dose — stop and call before taking more.

Discharge or a Bad Taste

Persistent discharge, or a foul taste that doesn’t clear, can be an early sign of infection.

Anything That Worries You

You don’t need to justify the call. If something feels wrong, we want to hear about it.

FAQ

Common Questions

Have more questions about your recovery? Here’s what patients ask us most.

Call (850) 738-1349 Request a Consultation

How long will swelling last?

Swelling typically peaks around day 2–3 and improves steadily over the following week.

When can I return to work or school?

Many patients return within a few days, though this depends on your specific procedure and how you’re healing.

What foods should I avoid?

Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods, as well as using a straw, until Dr. Tolley advises otherwise.

Is bleeding normal after surgery?

Some minor bleeding or oozing is normal in the first 24 hours; persistent or heavy bleeding should be reported to our office.

When should I take my prescribed medication?

Follow the specific instructions provided at your appointment, and contact us with any questions about dosing.

What if I have questions after hours?

Our office can be reached at (850) 738-1349. If it’s a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.