905-764-7799

Contents

  1. What to AVOID 2 Weeks Before Surgery
  2. What you Need
  3. What you Need to Know
  4. How to Care for your Incisions after Surgery
  5. What to AVOID post-surgery

PRE / POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

PLEASE NOTE: If you have any concerns or questions prior to your surgery, you are encouraged to speak to Dr. Solomon in advance to ensure you are fully prepared for your surgical date.

1. What to AVOID 2 Weeks Before Surgery:

  • Smoking/Vaping (Nicotine, Marijuana and CBD oil)
  • Alcohol for at least 2 weeks pre-op, as it may increase bruising and prolong swelling.
  • Naturopathic or herbal medications, unless approved by Dr. Solomon.
  • MUST discontinue Aspirin, Advil or Ibuprofen and all blood thinners, as these products may increase bleeding and prolong swelling.
  • MUST avoid Garlic extract, fish oils and Vitamin E and Arnica.

2. What You Need:

  • Vitamin C – Patients may take up to 2000 mg of Vitamin C daily for 2 weeks prior to surgery.
  • Prescription for anti-biotic and pain. Provided by the hospital on the day of your surgery or by our Surgical Centre prior to surgery at our clinic.
  • Ice packs.
  • Hydrogen peroxide and Polysporin ointment
  • 4×4 Gauze pads and Q-Tips.
  • Please come arrive shaven for surgery.
  • Please remove all jewellery and makeup from the neck up on the day of your surgery.
  • Patients may drive themselves home unless a sedative is requested for anxiety on the day of the procedure.
  • Recommended: Arnica by Sinecch, an herbal Supplement to help minimize bruising and swelling. To be taken following surgery. Sold in our clinic.

3. What You Need To Know:

  • This procedure is performed under General Anaesthesia and the patient is discharged the same day, approximately after 2 hours in recovery.
  • You will be discharged home wearing a head garment.
  • If you’re sent home with drains, you will need to be seen in our clinic 24 hours after your surgery by our nurse.
  • If no drains, you will be seen in our clinic for suture removal approximately 10 days following your surgery.
  • Please take your anti-biotic and pain medication as prescribed.
  • Best to separate anti-biotic and pain medication, 2 hours apart to avoid nausea/vomiting.
  • The sutures and staples may be removed in stages by the nurse starting 10 days post-op and may take up to 14 days for all to be removed depending on how the area is healing. This may involve 2-3 appointments.
  • Standard post-operative bruising & swelling may last 2-4 weeks. Please be patient.
  • Sleep with your head elevated using 2-3 pillows, for 3 days post op.
  • You may experience pain during the recovery process. Take Tylenol for pain (not Advil/Aspirin).
  • You may experience some numbness to the forehead and scalp for a few weeks.
  • Limited brow expression may occur during the recovery period .
  • Scars take up to one year to fully mature.
  • Your will see Dr. Solomon for your follow-up appointment approximately 4 weeks following your suture removal.

4. How To Care For Your Incisions After Surgery:

  • Wash your hands prior to cleaning the incision site.
  • Gently dab and wipe the incision with hydrogen peroxide to clean and remove dried blood.
  • Let dry for 2 minutes.
  • Gently apply a thin layer of Polysporin ointment to the incision.
  • While at home, keep incision open to air, wounds often heal best when exposed. If going outside or near dust or dirt particles, please wear a loose fitting hat to protect the incision.
  • Do not sleep on your incisions.
  • You may shower 48 hours after your surgery and gently wash your hair using a baby shampoo and conditioner. Do not use a blow dryer and do not brush the roots of your hair for 2 weeks.
  • Make-up can be applied to the incision area approximately 3 weeks post-op.
  • Do not colour your hair for 2 months.

5. What To AVOID Post-Surgery:

  • Avoid bending over or lifting heavy things for one week. Besides aggravating swelling, this may raise your blood pressure and start haemorrhage.
  • Avoid Smoking/Vaping (Nicotine, Marijuana and CBD oil), for one month as it may prolong healing and increase risk of complications.
  • Avoid Alcohol for at least 2 week pre-op and 2 weeks post-operatively, as it may cause fluid retention and prolong swelling. Alcohol should not be taken with pain medication.
  • Naturopathic or herbal medications, unless approved by Dr. Solomon.
  • Aspirin, Advil or Ibuprofen, as these products may prolong swelling.
  • Moderate physical exercise for up to 4 weeks post-operatively.
  • Strenuous physical exercise for up to 6 weeks post-operatively.
  • Direct sun exposure on incisions for up to 12 months. Use a minimum of SPF 45 daily.

If you experience any of the following listed below, please contact Dr. Solomon directly by email at info@solomonfacialplastic.com.

  • If you develop a large firm mass extending from the surgical area.
  • If you develop a rash, persistent fever, chills or sweating.
  • If you notice a foul odour or yellow drainage coming from the incision sites.
  • If you experience severe pain, that is not controlled with Tylenol.
  • If you experience persistent bleeding that does not resolve in 20 minutes or with direct pressure.
  • Persistent vomiting and inability to drink liquids for greater than 4 hours.
  • Shortness of breath, chest pain, weakness or numbness in the face or limbs.

IF WE ARE NOT ABLE TO BE REACHED, PLEASE GO TO YOUR NEAREST HOSPTIAL EMERGENCY FOR ASSESSMENT.

If you require any clarification regarding these instructions or would like to arrange a follow up appointment with the nurse, please call the office at 905.764.7799 or email us at officestaff.solomon@gmail.com

Feb 20th 2020