Surgical Instructions

Instructions After a Biopsy

The Biopsy of either tissue or bone is a surgical procedure, and therefore, there are things that you can expect and should not be alarmed about. Here are a few simple guidelines to help promote healing, prevent complications, and make yourself more comfortable.

Swelling- Do not be alarmed. It may get larger for the next 24-48 hours, and can last for up to 7 days. Our office should be notified if the swelling increases to the point where your eye becomes swollen, you are having difficulty swallowing or difficulty catching your breath. Applying ice to the area for the first 24 hours will aid in decreasing the swelling. The ice should be applied 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. Popsicles, as well as ice cream can be helpful in areas in the mouth that are hard to reach with icepacks.
Bleeding from Incision Site- There will most likely be gauze in your mouth after you leave the office. Leave the gauze in place for 30 minutes. Keep pressure on the surgical area and continue changing the gauze every 30-40 minutes until you see that the gauze after 30 minutes is only a pinkish color then leave it out. If bleeding fails to stop within a reasonable time (12-24 hours) please call us.
Diet- The area may be sore when eating or chewing. Your diet will usually consist of liquids and soft food that can easily be chewed. The diet can be advanced as you tolerate after the first day. Avoiding any small seeded foods such as poppy seeds, sesame seeds or strawberry seeds, will prevent any food from becoming lodged in the surgical site.
Rinsing- Rinse your mouth gently every 4 hours with a salt and water solution. (1/4 tsp table salt to a 8oz. Glass of warm water) Continue this daily until you return to our office. The doctor may prescribed a mouthrinse for you, which should be used as directed in addition to the salt water rinses.

The biopsy report may take from 5-7 days to process. A copy will be sent to your referring doctor. If you would like, you may request a copy for your personal health records when you return for your follow up appointment.

If you have any problems or concerns, Dr. Lippisch or Dr. Engebretsen is available by beeper 24 hours a day, and can be reached by calling our office number (772) 223-0600, leaving a message including your name and phone number.