Sinus Lift Post-Operative Instructions

• Right After Surgery

  • Bite down gently but firmly on the gauze pads placed at the surgical site. Change gauze every 30–45 minutes as needed

  • Avoid disturbing the area: Do not touch, rinse, or spit for the first 24 hours.

  • Apply an ice pack to your cheek (20 minutes on / 20 minutes off) for the first 24–48 hours to reduce swelling.

  • Activity & Rest

  • Rest with your head elevated on pillows for the first 48 hours to minimize bleeding and swelling.

  • Avoid bending over, heavy lifting, or strenuous activity for at least 1 week.

•  Medications

  • Take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed to prevent infection.

  • Use pain medication (prescribed or over-the-counter) as needed.

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    If a decongestant or nasal spray is prescribed, use it as directed to keep sinuses open and reduce pressure. ( Recommend Zyrtek and Psudofed)

     

• Avoid These

  • NO nose blowing for at least 2–3 weeks. If you need to sneeze, do so with your mouth open to reduce sinus pressure.

  • Do not smoke or vape — smoking severely delays healing and increases risk of complications.

  • Avoid using straws or any activity that creates suction in your mouth for at least 2 weeks 

• Diet

  • Stick to a soft food diet for the first several days:

  • Examples: Yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, smoothies (no straw), soups (lukewarm).

  • Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or hard foods that might disturb the surgical site.

• Oral Hygiene

  • Do not rinse or brush near the surgical site for the first 24 hours.

  • After 24 hours, gently rinse with salt water (1/2 tsp salt in 8 oz warm water) 3–4 times/day, especially after meals.

  • You may gently brush other areas of your mouth, avoiding the surgical area.

• Watch For

  • Call your Doctor if you experience:

  • Persistent or heavy bleeding (minor oozing is normal for 1–2 days)

  • Severe pain not relieved by medication

  • Fever or chills

  • Foul smell or taste from the surgical area

  • Swelling that worsens after 3–4 days

  • Clear fluid or blood from the nose

• Follow-Up

  • Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments so your surgeon can monitor healing and determine when you’re ready for implant placement.