Soft Tissue Procedures: Advice Sheet   

What is a soft tissue procedure?

A soft tissue procedure in one that does not involve teeth or bone.

 

Several procedures fall into this category:

1. Complete removal of lump or swelling from either inside the mouth or the skin of the  face.

2. Removal of a small piece of skin from the face or mouth to confirm a diagnosis (biopsy).

3. Suturing of a deep cut or laceration.

 

In most cases where tissue has been removed, it will be sent to the laboratory to be checked, under the microscope.

 

What about the results?

We either see you again in the department of pass the results to your GP.

 

How long will it take?

Generally less than 30 minutes, but longer if a large wound needs cleaning and stitching.

 

Will I be in pain afterwards?

Immediately after the procedure, the area of surgery will be numb, due to the surgeon using local anaesthetic. However, after several hours this will wear off and the area will probably feel sore, so it is advisable to take painkillers (as suggested by the doctor).

 

Are there any after effects?

The main effect will be pain and soreness. However, you may find a small amount of scarring once the site has healed.

 

Will there be any stitches?

Yes—we normally place stitches to help with healing and reduce scarring.

 

Inside the mouth these are often dissolvable stitches. These can take 2—3 weeks to dissolve/ come away. On the skin stitches will need to be removed at 5—7 days. We may also use cauterisation to prevent bleeding.

 

When can I return to work?

This largely depends on your occupation and how you are afterwards. It may be possible for you to return to work the next day. However, some people may need time off work.

 

Are there any things I should do when I get home?

¨ The site of surgery may bleed. Sit down and roll up a swab and apply pressure to the site for at least 10 minutes.                                            

 

¨ Take simple painkillers as required.

 

¨ If your surgeon has prescribed antibiotics, take them as prescribed and remember to finish the course. Do not mix them with alcohol.   

 

For the mouth:   

¨ On the day of surgery avoid rinsing you mouth as this may cause bleeding. The day after use a mouthwash made up with a teaspoonful of salt in a tumbler of water,        as hot as you can comfortably tolerate in the mouth. Gently rinse this fluid over the operation area, after each meal and last thing at night, using the whole tumbler full (this should be commenced the day after surgery).             

            

¨ Clean your teeth after each meal and last thing at night, including those teeth next to the operation site.

 

¨ Adjust your diet towards normal as you become more comfortable.

 

¨ Smoking and drinking alcohol should be avoided.

 

For the face:

A simple ointment may be given to you to use over the site. This should be used up to 4 times a day.

 

The skin should also be kept clean and dry.

 

Will I need another appointment?

You may need to return to have stitches removed and to be given the results of the biopsy. If any further treatment is necessary, any other appointments will be made at that time.

 

REMEMBER

 

Keep the site as clean as possible and take all medication.

 

We do hope that this sheet has been helpful. If you have any comments please do not hesitate to tell us.

 

 

This leaflet has been designed for you to improve your understanding of your forthcoming operation and contains many commonly asked questions. If you have any questions or would like further explanation please discuss this with your doctor or attending nurse