Getting ready for major oral surgery can feel overwhelming. At Nevada OMS, our Las Vegas surgical team helps hundreds of patients navigate their preparation and recovery each year. Here’s your guide to a smooth surgical experience, from planning to full recovery.

Before Your Surgery

Two Weeks Before:

• Schedule time off work or school (typically 1-2 weeks)
• Arrange for someone to drive you home
• Stop smoking and avoid alcohol
• Tell us about any medications you take
• Stock up on soft foods and recovery supplies
• Get any prescribed medications filled early

The Day Before:

• No food or drinks after midnight
• Set up a comfy recovery area at home
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing
• Remove nail polish and jewelry
• Get a good night’s rest

Recovery Supplies to Have Ready:

• Ice packs
• Soft foods and liquids
• Prescribed medications
• Extra pillows for elevated sleeping
• Entertainment (books, movies, games)
• Phone charger by your bed

After Surgery Care

First 24 Hours:

• Keep the gauze in place as directed
• Use ice packs (20 minutes on, 20 off)
• Take prescribed medications on schedule
• Rest with your head elevated
• No spitting or using straws
• Start with clear liquids only

First Week:

• Soft foods like smoothies, yogurt, and soup
• Gentle salt water rinses
• Keep the surgical area clean
• Take medications as prescribed
• No smoking or alcohol
• Light activity only
• Avoid hard foods and chewing near surgery sites

Managing Common Issues

Swelling:

The Nevada OMS team reminds patients that swelling usually peaks around day 3. Ice packs help early on, then switch to warm compresses after 48 hours. Keep your head elevated while sleeping.

Bleeding:

Some oozing is normal for 24-48 hours. If bleeding increases:

• Place fresh gauze
• Bite firmly for 30 minutes
• Stay upright
• Call our Las Vegas office if the bleeding doesn’t slow

Pain Management:

• Take prescribed medications before numbness wears off
• Don’t wait for severe pain to start
• Ice packs help reduce discomfort
• Call Nevada OMS if pain suddenly increases

Diet Tips

First Few Days:

• Clear broths
• Smoothies (no straws)
• Protein shakes
• Jell-O
• Apple sauce
• Lukewarm drinks

Gradually Add:

• Mashed potatoes
• Scrambled eggs
• Pasta
• Well-cooked vegetables
• Soft fish
• Tender meats

When to Call Nevada OMS

Contact our Las Vegas or Henderson office if you experience:

• Severe pain not helped by medication
• Excessive bleeding
• Fever over 101°F
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe swelling
• Persistent numbness
• Difficulty swallowing

Return to Normal Activities

Most patients at Nevada OMS return to:

• Work/school: 1-2 weeks
• Light exercise: 1 week
• Normal diet: 2-4 weeks
• Contact sports: 6-8 weeks

Keys to Fast Recovery:

• Follow all post-op instructions
• Keep follow-up appointments
• Stay hydrated
• Get plenty of rest
• Eat nutritious soft foods
• Keep the surgical area clean
• Take medications as directed

Long-term Success

Your role in healing matters. Our Las Vegas surgical team sees the best results in patients who:

• Follow care instructions carefully
• Maintain good oral hygiene
• Attend all follow-up visits
• Call with concerns early
• Stay patient during recovery
• Keep a positive attitude

Emergency Care

Nevada OMS provides 24/7 emergency support for our surgical patients. Save our phone numbers in your contacts:

• Charleston, Las Vegas: (702) 710-9441
• Pecos, Las Vegas: (702) 935-4678 

Remember, proper preparation and following post-operative instructions significantly impact your recovery. Our Nevada OMS team stays with you every step of the way, ensuring you have the support needed for optimal healing.

Schedule your consultation at our Las Vegas or Henderson locations to learn more about preparing for your upcoming procedure. We’re here to answer all your questions and ensure you feel confident about your surgical journey.