Lip Augmentation Postoperative Instructions FAQ
1) What do I look like when I wake up from surgery?
Following cosmetic lip procedures, most patients experience swelling and bruising, however, this typically is more pronounced 24-48 hours after the procedure. Swelling can take upwards of two to three weeks to resolve.
2) What does it feel like when I wake up from surgery?
You will be comfortable and groggy as you awaken. We will make sure you are not nauseated or queasy. Our nurses will be right there with you as you wake up from surgery to give you special attention.
3) Does someone have to stay overnight with me after surgery?
Yes. You must arrange ahead of time for a responsible adult to stay with you the first night following surgery.
4) Are there any dietary restrictions following surgery?
Typically there are no dietary restrictions. Patients can eat whatever they want. Advance your diet from liquids to soft food to solids as tolerated. Please drink as much fluid as you can which will help you from becoming dehydrated. If for any reason there are incisions inside the mouth, your surgeon may ask you to refrain from dairy products for four days following surgery.
5) Are there any instructions about regular daily activities?
Sleep with head of the bed elevated or use two to three pillows for one week. Lip fullness and disrupted sleep are very normal postoperative symptoms and will decrease as the healing process occurs. Absolutely no bending, lifting or straining for three weeks following surgery. If you have little children, bend at the knees or sit on the floor and let them climb on to your lap.
6) Will I need any special prescriptions following surgery?
Yes. Postoperative prescriptions are provided well in advance of surgery day so you arrive home completely prepared. Postoperative prescriptions and over-the-counter medications for patients undergoing lip surgery include the following:
A) An antibiotic (usually Keflex/cephalexin) following surgery to prevent infection.
B) Pain medication to minimize any discomfort following surgery. It is best to take pain medication with food.
C) Ointment, an antibiotic ointment, to place on sutures with a Q-tip to keep them soft and lubricated so they are easy to remove.
D) Vitamin C 1000 mg three times daily with food daily for one week following surgery to promote healing.
7) When do I start taking these prescriptions?
Patients take their pain medication as needed. You will begin the antibiotic medication when you arrive home from surgery. Wound care instructions are provided at the time of discharge.
8) How long will bruising and swelling last?
For most patients, bruising is minimal. Swelling lasts upwards of two to three weeks or more.
9) Can I do anything to prevent bruising and swelling?
Most patents will have a little bruising. We can minimize bleeding and bruising by avoiding aspirin and ibuprofen prior to the surgery. Also, following activity restrictions postoperatively will help swelling disappear more quickly.
10) When can I shower?
The sutures must remain dry and in place until your suture removal appointment. Therefore, you may bathe and wash your hair in the sink any time following the procedure.
11) When is my first postoperative appointment?
The appointment for your first office visit (typically at five days postoperatively) will be arranged at the time of the preoperative appointment. This allows you to plan on transportation if it is required.
12) When will I look normal?
You will be presentable at about two to three weeks. You will look great at six weeks and even better at six months as things settle and expressions become more natural. At two weeks you know you are well on the way to recovery. Final results are evaluated at one year.
13) How long does healing take?
Healing from cosmetic lip surgery to evaluate the final result takes one full year. However, after three months, most patients have about 90% of their final result.