PATIENT CARE: POSTOPERATIVE CARE

General postoperative instructions:

1. Keep all dressings on, dry and clean.

2. Do not remove any dressing until instructed to do so by the doctor.

3. If you have had facial surgery, please sleep with your head elevated on 2 pillows to help reduce swelling.

4. If you have had surgery on your arms or legs, please keep elevated in a sling or on pillows to help reduce the swelling.

5. No strenuous activities, e.g.: lifting weights, jogging, vacuuming, laundry, housework, gardening, etc. until cleared by the doctor to resume these activities.

6. If given a prescription for pain, use as directed. Otherwise, you may take extra strength Tylenol, if you are not allergic to it. You may not take Aspirin or any other pain medication without the doctor’s approval. If your pain is not under control, please call the office.

7. The first working day after surgery, call our office to make an appointment for postoperative care.

8. If pain, numbness, or other problems develop, call the office to speak to our staff or answering service, or proceed to the emergency room.

9. Signing the line below indicates I have received a copy of the form today regarding my care in general and in addition to specific instructions given to me by the doctor.