General Postoperative Instructions
Important Notice
These instructions provide general guidance and may be modified by Dr. Khalid Almutairi according to the procedure, the technique used, and the patient’s medical condition. If this information differs from the direct instructions or discharge prescription given to the patient, the patient-specific medical instructions must be followed. Do not change a medication dose, stop medication prescribed for a chronic condition, or begin a new treatment without medical guidance.
This information does not replace medical assessment or postoperative follow-up.
1. Medications
Take the antibiotic, pain medicines, and other medications according to the prescription and for the specified duration.
Pain management follows the paracetamol and ibuprofen protocol described in the Pain Management section. Follow the dose written in the discharge prescription and observe all contraindications.
Do not stop the antibiotic before completing the prescribed course unless directed by the doctor.
Do not take aspirin, medicines, or supplements that increase bleeding unless the doctor approves them.
Do not stop any blood thinner prescribed for a chronic medical condition on your own.
It is preferable to take the prescribed pain medicine immediately after discharge, before the local anaesthetic has fully worn off.
Do not drive while taking medicines that may cause drowsiness or impaired concentration.
2. Wound Care
Keep the wound clean and dry according to the doctor’s instructions.
Do not rub or scratch the wound, touch the sutures, or attempt to remove them.
When cleaning the wound, pat gently rather than wiping or rubbing.
Do not apply creams, oils, or skincare products to the wound unless the doctor approves them.
A topical antibiotic ointment may be used only if it has been prescribed for the patient.
3. Showering
The timing of showering depends on the procedure, the dressing, and whether surgical drains are present.
Use lukewarm water and avoid very hot water.
Keep the water flow gentle and indirect over the wound.
Dry the area by patting it with a clean towel; do not rub.
Avoid immersing the area in water or swimming until the doctor permits it.
4. Sleeping and Head Elevation
Sleep on your back during the first few days unless the doctor advises otherwise.
Elevate your head with two or more pillows to reduce swelling.
Avoid direct pressure on the operated area.
Do not sleep on the wound or treated area until the doctor permits it.
5. Movement and Activity
Rest is important during the first few days, but light movement around the home is advised according to the type of procedure.
Avoid bending, strenuous effort, and lifting heavy objects.
Avoid exercise and activities that could cause an impact or pressure on the operated area.
Return to activity gradually according to the doctor’s assessment.
6. Smoking and Nutrition
Avoid smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke because smoking affects circulation and wound healing.
For extensive procedures or procedures involving fat transfer, avoiding smoking for up to three months may be recommended.
Ensure adequate protein intake and eat foods rich in vitamin C.
Maintain appropriate fluid intake unless there is a medical contraindication.
7. Signs Requiring Urgent Contact
Contact the clinic promptly for severe or worsening pain that does not respond to the prescribed pain medicines, marked or spreading redness around the wound, obvious skin warmth, pus or discharge with an unusual odour, a temperature above 38–38.5°C, or an abnormal dark or pale change in skin colour.
Seek urgent medical assessment for persistent or heavy bleeding; sudden or rapidly increasing swelling, particularly on one side; sudden facial weakness after facial surgery; a change in vision or severe eye pain after facial or eyelid surgery; shortness of breath; or pain and swelling in one leg after body-contouring surgery.
Clinic contact
Telephone: 920027778
Email: surgeplastic@gmail.com — awaiting authoritative confirmation
Location: The First Clinic, Al Zahra, Jeddah — awaiting authoritative confirmation
For a potentially life-threatening emergency, do not rely on email or a website contact form.
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