After a sinus lift

The first day

• Some oozing or pink saliva is normal for a day or two. If bleeding continues, fold clean gauze or a damp black tea bag, place it on the area, and press firmly for 30 minutes.
• Hold a cold pack, wrapped in a cloth, against your face near the treated area for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off while you are awake.
• Rest, and keep your head raised on pillows the first night.
• Avoid hot food and drinks until the numbness wears off, so you do not burn or bite your cheek or tongue.

Protecting the sinus

• Do not blow your nose for two weeks. Wipe it, or sniff gently, instead.
• Sneeze with your mouth open. Do not pinch your nose to hold back a sneeze.
• Do not drink through a straw or spit forcefully.
• Avoid flying and scuba diving until Dr. Smith says it is safe.
• Take any decongestant or antibiotic exactly as prescribed.

Eating

• Eat soft foods for the first several days, and chew on the other side of your mouth.

Activity

• Avoid bending over, heavy lifting, and strenuous exercise for several days.

What to expect

• A little bleeding from the nose, or blood-tinged mucus, is common for a few days.
• You may notice a few small granules of graft material in your mouth or nose. A few are not a concern.
• Swelling and bruising, sometimes under the eye, can occur and fade over one to two weeks.

Medicines

• Take any medicines exactly as Dr. Smith prescribed or recommended, and finish every antibiotic you were given.
• If you take a blood thinner or other regular medicines, follow the plan you discussed before treatment.

Smoking and alcohol

• Avoid smoking and vaping while you heal. They slow healing and raise the risk of problems.
• Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours, and while you are taking prescription pain medicine.

When to call the office

• Bleeding that does not slow after 30 minutes of firm pressure
• Pain or swelling that gets worse after the third day instead of better
• A fever
• Pus, or a bad taste or smell that does not go away
• Numbness that has not worn off by the next day
• A reaction to a medicine, such as a rash, itching, or an upset stomach that does not settle
• Air or liquid passes between your mouth and nose
• A nosebleed that does not stop
• More than a few graft granules coming from your nose
• Sinus pain or pressure with fever or thick discharge

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