Dr. Keith Kreuger

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Bend, OR

541-617-3993

Surgical Instructions

Sinus grafting post op instructions

Whenever any activity occurs within or around the maxillary sinus, there are special precautions and instructions that one must follow to allow the area to heal properly.

Please follow:

  1. A gauze pack has been placed over the graft area. Hold this in place with gentle biting pressure. The gauze pack should be changed every 30 minutes for 2 hours fallowing the procedure. Slight bleeding on/off for up to 24 hours in area of graft is normal.
  2. If a denture was placed following the procedure by the doctor, you will need to leave it in for 24 hours. This will protect the graft area. If a denture was not placed please continue to use the gauze pack as directed above.
  3. You will need to be on an antihistamine or decongested for 5 days following the procedure unless directed otherwise.
  4. An ice pack placed over your cheek where the graft was done may reduce swelling. As soon as possible, put the ice pack over the area for 30 minutes, then remove for 30 minutes, and repeat. Continue for 2 days post-operatively to help reduce the amount of swelling.
  5. Avoid rinsing for 24 hours as well as any physical activity.
  6. Do not use straws for one week. Do not chew or take in hot liquids until your numbness has subsided.
  7. You will need to be on a soft non-chewing diet for 2 weeks in the area where the grafting was done. Soups, mashed potatoes, soft pasta, baked fish, canned fruits or vegetables are ideal.
  8. NO SMOKING FOR AT LEAST 48 HOURS. Smoking in the first several days following surgery dramatically delays healing and increases discomfort.
  9. Sutures used will dissolve by themselves unless you are told otherwise.
  10. A post operative appointment is needed 7-14 days to check healing progress.

In the event of an emergency during office hours, call our office at 617-3993. After hours Dr. Krueger can be paged and your call will be returned as soon as possible. Please attempt to call for prescription refills during normal business hours. If you cannot reach the office and feel you have an emergency that cannot wait, please call 382-4321 or go the emergency room at St. Charles Medical Center.