Post Op Cheek Implant

Cheek Implants Post-Op Recovery Instructions

  1. Cheek implants do not require any external facial dressings. You will go home with no bandages or wraps. Nor will the face be taped.
  2. There will be some considerable swelling in the first few days after surgery. You may use ice or frozen vegetables on your face to help control swelling for the first evening/night after surgery. Do not worry about dislodging or moving the cheek implants, they are screwed in place.
  3. The incisions for cheek implants are inside the mouth and the sutures are dissolvable. There is no need for suture removal. They are located high up under the upper lip.
  4. You may eat normal foods and chew without any restrictions. The only foods you should avoid in the first week are those that require ‘biting off’. Cut your foods and use your utensils to bypass the need to do so for the first week after surgery.
  5. You may sleep laying flat and avoid sleeping on your side or face down for the first week after surgery.
  6. You may shower, bath, and wash your face and hair the next day after surgery. Men may feel free to shave.
  7. You may brush and floss your teeth as you normally would.
  8. Your activity level should be what feels good. Do routine activities as tolerated. Strenuous exercise may be resumed 1 week after surgery. Avoid contact sports, where the risk of getting hit in the face may cause implant problems.
  9. The skin around the cheek and upper lip may feel numb after surgery. This should completely go away by one month after surgery.
  10. You may begin driving the next day if you are off pain medications and can think clearly.
  11. If you develop swelling or redness of your face, call Dr. Eppley and have your pharmacy number ready.