Prior to Surgery:

It is important to stop taking aspirin two weeks prior to the surgery, and ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®, Nuprin®, etc.) and Aleve® one week prior to the surgery.

The night before surgery, do not have anything to eat or drink after midnight.  If the patient has been instructed otherwise during their pre-admission testing appointment, follow those instructions.

What to Expect:

• It is common to be temporarily hoarse after this procedure. This may not develop until a day or two after the procedure, and may persist for a few weeks.
• There is usually little or no pain after this procedure. There may be jaw pain from wide opening of the mouth during surgery. Use Tylenol® (acetaminophen) as needed for pain.
• Citrus fruit juices may cause pain, thus should be avoided for the first one to two weeks after surgery.
• Sleeping in a cool, humidified room is beneficial. An antibiotic may be prescribed to prevent infection.
• Antacids may be prescribed or helpful if there is a history of heartburn or reflux.
• Call our office if the patient has a fever of over 101°.

Restrictions:

• Voice Rest (i.e. talk as little as possible) is helpful in the first two weeks after surgery.
• This allows the vocal chords to heal more quickly. When speaking, do not whisper as this puts more strain on the vocal cords than attempting to use a normal voice.
• There are no dietary restrictions after this procedure.
• Driving is permitted as long as the patient is not taking any prescription pain medicines. Aspirin and aspirin-containing products should be avoided for the first ten days after this procedure.
• Do not smoke, and avoid exposure to cigarette/pipe/cigar smoke.
• Follow-up in our office as scheduled, or please call our office to make this appointment.

Please call 610-374-5599 with any questions or concerns.