Pain control
Take medications as required for pain (paracetamol and ibuprofen
are available from pharmacies without prescription). Local
anaesthetic is injected into the area at the time of surgery; this
should wear off within 24 hours and an increase in pain may occur
when the local anaesthetic ceases to have effect.
Dressings
Apply Chloromycetin (antibiotic) ointment frequently to keep the
wound moist.
Antibiotics
If antibiotics are prescribed for your child administer these as
directed.
Diet
Your child can have a normal diet, although it is better to
offer soft foods for the first few days if pain from the lip makes
it difficult to chew or eat solid foods.
What to expect
The cut that was repaired may have a scar and often becomes
'lumpy' for a few weeks or months. Every effort is made to minimise
the scarring and achieve the best cosmetic result. You will be
given instructions at your review appointment on what to do to
prevent poor healing and bad scarring. This may include massage of
the area to soften the tougher scar tissue.
Medical attention
Seek medical attention if your child has:
- Increasing pain or pain not relieved by medication
- Persistent fever
- General unwellness
- Wound discharge or increasing redness
Follow-up
Your follow-up appointment will be at one of the following:
- Plastic Surgery Outpatients (Registrar Clinic), Blue Desk,
Ground Floor, The Royal Children's Hospital (morning appointment)
- Consultant Clinic
- Consultant Private Rooms
- Local doctor
If you are unable to keep your appointment please call to
reschedule.
Contact
Plastic & Maxillofacial Surgery Office - 9345 5391
Outpatient appointments - 9345 6180
Plastic Surgery Resident or Registrar - via switchboard on 9345
5522
Developed by The Royal Children's Hospital Speech Pathology and Plastic and Maxillofacial Surgery departments. We acknowledge the input of RCH consumers and carers.
Reviewed November 2015.
Kids Health Info is supported by The Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation. To donate, visit www.rchfoundation.org.au.