Aftercare
Biopsy and minor soft tissue surgery (lumps)
Here are some instructions and advice for home care to minimize and shorten any discomfort after your surgery. Please read this guide thoroughly and keep it for reference!
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After the removal of a soft tissue abnormality or taking a biopsy, the wound is typically stitched with dissolvable sutures. These sutures usually dissolve within 10–14 days.
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Do not rinse your mouth too frequently or too forcefully during the first day. This could cause the wound to start bleeding again.
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You can reduce any swelling by cooling the cheek or lip with a cold pack on the first day.
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You may eat and drink as usual after the procedure. However, be cautious with hot food and drinks as long as the anesthesia is still effective.
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Avoid putting excessive tension on the wound for the first two weeks after the procedure, as this could cause the stitches to break and the wound to reopen. For example, you can apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to your lips to prevent strain.
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After the procedure, you will be given a prescription for the pharmacy. The oral surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to use it. It is best to take pain relief medication immediately upon returning home so it takes effect before the anesthesia wears off.
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Starting the day after the procedure, it is essential to rinse and/or disinfect the wound daily to promote optimal healing. You can use the prescribed mouthwash or a salt solution made at home (1 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of lukewarm water).
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If you follow the above instructions and advice carefully, most normal symptoms such as pain and swelling should subside on their own within 4–5 days.
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In the case of a biopsy, the removed tissue will be sent to a laboratory for further examination. The results typically take about 1–2 weeks. Once the results are available, we will discuss them with you during a telephone consultation. Your referring doctor (dentist or general practitioner) will also be informed of the results in writing.
What to do in case of problems and/or complications
Bleeding
Some bleeding for a few days after the procedure is normal, often appearing as saliva mixed with a small amount of blood. However, there should not be continuous bright red bleeding from the wound. If this occurs, it is considered a postoperative bleed. In such a case:
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Rinse the wound thoroughly to remove any visible clots in the mouth.
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Apply firm pressure to the wound using a clean gauze pad for at least 30 minutes.
In most cases, this will stop the bleeding. If the bleeding persists, repeat the process.
If you have followed these steps and the bleeding does not stop, please contact us immediately!
Pain
While significant pain is uncommon after these treatments, some discomfort may occur and is considered normal. The oral surgeon will prescribe pain relief medication suitable for your overall health. You may also take paracetamol if needed.
You can reach us at the following phone number: (076) 205 0608
NB:
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Outside office hours you will be transferred to the emergency number of the dental surgeon on duty.
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The emergency number is only intended for serious complaints, not for complaints that can wait until a normal working day.
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The emergency line is only for patients who have undergone treatment with us within 2 weeks.
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As a patient, you must contact us yourself and not have someone call for you.
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The costs of a telephone consultation (€69.48) will be charged for calling the emergency number.
