After Surgery
Recovery After the Surgery
Controlling Pain and Discomfort
Patients will describe a sore throat pain or discomfort. Ibuprofen (Motrin / Advil) for the first 2-3 days continuously, use narcotic medications sparingly. Consider alternating the pain medication if needed, DO NOT JUST TAKE NARCOTICS. Follow the directions on the label based on the child's weight/age (do not take more than the recommended dose). Pain control is mainly needed for the first 3-5 days after surgery, there after as needed.
Swelling/Bruising
Expect some degree of swelling of the palate and throat region. The swelling is worst the first 3 days after surgery, and by the end of the week it is significantly less. Please also have your child sleep with an extra pillow or two or on a recliner It is important that the head is kept elevated. The swelling is worse in the morning with lying down. Being up and active will help the swelling to come down faster.
Antibiotics
Follow the directions on the antibiotics. If you miss a dose do not double it. If your child develops diarrhea, please discontinue the antibiotics.
What to eat
First few days stick to more liquids so that it is easier to keep the mouth clean. Begin slowly after the surgery to minimize nausea and to easily clean the mouth after eating. Encourage liquids after surgery as much as possible to avoid dehydration. This will help the tissues to heal. (Children can easily become dehydrated). After a day or so, start with a soft diet (Jello, puddings, soups to pasta), and continue the soft diet for the first 2 weeks after surgery thereafter there is no restriction.
General Care
Wash and bathe normally the day after surgery. There are no restrictions in daily activities or positioning in sleeping, gradually increase every day. Most of the children are recovered by 1 week after surgery. Contact sports should be avoided for 6 weeks after surgery.
Nasal Care
Continue the salt water (saline) nasal spray after surgery for at least 6 months. Use a humidifier or vaporizer. This will help with the nasal passageways. Occasional nasal bleeding and crusting may continue from weeks to months after surgery.
Oral Care
First 3 days, rinse mouth frequently with salt water mouth rinse 4-6 times a day. Start brushing the teeth as soon as you feel comfortable. Good oral care is IMPORTANT for healing.
Follow Up Appointment with the Surgeon
Appointment 2-4 weeks after surgery
Appointment 6 months after surgery
Appointment 12 months after surgery
