Pre and Post-Operative Instructions

Neck

Please read these instructions before and after your surgery to be able to obtain the best possible results. If you have questions, do not hesitate to contact the office. We want you to have a pleasant experience.

Before Surgery

• Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, Vitamin E, herbal supplements, and medications containing these compounds, for two weeks before surgery. Paracetamol (or generic equivalent) and a daily multivitamin are fine.
• Refrain from smoking two weeks before and two weeks after surgery. Nicotine and tobacco smoke delay healing and can result in scarring.
• Your prescriptions for after surgery (typically antibiotic and pain medication) will be given to you the day of surgery.
• Do not eat or drink anything, including water, after midnight, the night before your surgery.
• Arrange for someone to stay with you and take you home from the clinic. You will not be allowed to drive or leave alone.

The Day of Surgery

• Report one hour before surgery.
• Do not eat or drink anything, including water, on the morning of surgery. Essential medications may be taken with a sip of water.
• Wear loose-fitting, front-opening clothes.
• Leave all valuables at home; do not wear jewelry.
• Do not wear any facial or eye make-up. Remove all nail paint.
• You may wear glasses but do not wear contact lenses.
• Have a hair bath prior to arrival.
• Avoid all perfumes and deodorants.
• If you wear dentures, carry a case for them.

After Surgery

• Keep your head elevated to minimize swelling.
• Expect to have a tight dressing around the neck. You may wash your face but keep the dressing dry. At the time of discharge, you will receive instructions to come back into the office in 48 hours for removal and replacement of the dressing. The replacement dressing will need to be left in place until your follow up visit in the office approximately 5-6 days after surgery.
• Your diet should comprise soft foods for the next 3-4 days after surgery.
• Hair bath to be avoided for 5-6 days.
• Avoid extreme physical activity. You may resume light walking three days after surgery. Aerobic exercise, weight training, heavy lifting, and straining may be gradually resumed three weeks after surgery.
• Children may return to school during the week following surgery but should not participate in active sports or physical education classes.
• Swimming is not allowed until 4-6 weeks after surgery.
• Avoid ice cream and cold drinks for 4-6 weeks after surgery.
• Take only medications prescribed by your doctor.
• Schedule your first follow up in 24-48 hours after surgery (for dressing change). Schedule your second follow up 5-6 days after surgery (for dressing removal). Schedule a final appointment with the office in 10 days after surgery.