Pre-Operative Instructions for Oral & Facial Surgery

Smoking: Smoking must be stopped at least 4 weeks before surgery and throughout your recovery period. Smoking dramatically increases complications including infection, poor healing, tissue death, and implant or graft failure. If you need support to stop smoking, please discuss this with us or your GP. Nicotine replacement products (patches, gum, vaping) also impair healing and should be avoided.

Alcohol: Avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours before surgery. Alcohol can interfere with anaesthesia and increase bleeding risk.

Recreational Drugs: All recreational drugs must be avoided. These can cause dangerous interactions with anaesthetic medications and compromise your safety.

Take your regular medications with a small sip of water on the morning of surgery unless specifically instructed otherwise. Diabetic patients should follow the specific instructions provided.

Before Surgery

• Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly the night before and morning of surgery (if fasting rules allow)

• Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash if provided

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene in the days leading up to surgery

• If you develop a cold sore, mouth ulcer, or any oral infection before surgery, contact our office immediately

Dental Work

Complete any necessary dental work (cleaning, fillings, etc.) at least 2 weeks before your surgery, unless otherwise advised.

Illness or Infection

If you develop any illness, cold, flu, cough, fever, or infection in the week before your surgery, contact our office immediately. Surgery may need to be postponed to ensure your safety and optimal healing.

COVID-19 and Infectious Diseases

Please notify us if you:

• Have tested positive for COVID-19 or other infectious diseases

• Have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with an infectious disease

• Are experiencing any symptoms of illness

Pregnancy

Inform us immediately if there is any possibility you may be pregnant, as this affects anaesthesia and medication decisions.

Women's Health

Surgery is generally not scheduled during menstruation when possible, particularly for extensive procedures. Please inform us of your menstrual cycle when scheduling.

Understanding Your Procedure

Ensure you fully understand your procedure, expected outcomes, and recovery process. Write down any questions and contact our office before your surgery date.

Anxiety Management

It's normal to feel anxious before surgery. If you're experiencing significant anxiety:

• Discuss sedation options with A/Prof Freudlsperger

• Practice relaxation techniques in the days before surgery

• Ensure you get adequate rest

• Avoid excessive research online that may increase anxiety

• Reach out to our team with concerns

Realistic Expectations

Review the information provided about expected outcomes, recovery timeline, and potential risks. Realistic expectations contribute significantly to satisfaction with results.

Prepare Your Recovery Space

• Arrange a comfortable place to rest with pillows for head elevation

• Stock your refrigerator with soft foods and drinks

• Fill prescriptions before surgery so medications are ready when you get home

• Prepare ice packs or frozen peas wrapped in towels

• Have clean towels and face cloths available

• Set up entertainment (books, movies, music) for your recovery period

Arrange Help

Arrange for assistance at home for at least the first 24-48 hours, particularly after procedures involving sedation or general anaesthesia. You'll need help with:

• Transportation

• Meal preparation

• Medication management

• Household tasks

• Childcare if applicable

• Sedation or General Anaesthesia: You MUST arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from your appointment, remain at the facility during your procedure, and stay with you for at least 12-24 hours after surgery. You will not be permitted to drive, take public transport alone, or use a taxi/rideshare service unaccompanied.

• Local Anaesthesia Only: While you can generally drive yourself, we recommend having someone accompany you for support, particularly for longer or more complex procedures.

Plan adequate time off from work, school, or other commitments. Recovery times vary by procedure, and specific guidance will be provided for your surgery.

Payment and Insurance

Ensure all financial arrangements are completed before your surgery date. Bring any necessary insurance documentation or referrals.

Consent Forms

All consent forms should be completed and any questions resolved before the day of surgery. Don't hesitate to ask for clarification about anything you don't understand.