About Your Surgery

What to expect before your surgery

Dr Chellappah’s staff will be in contact with you prior to your procedure. They will confirm:

  • The time of your appointment/admission

  • Where to come if your treatment is happening in a hospital or day surgery facility under general anaesthetic

  • Fasting instructions if applicable.

  • The cost of the proposed treatment.

    • Please note payment is required 5 days prior to any treatment under general anaesthetic.

    • For procedures performed under local anaesthetic and local anaesthetic under sedation, payment is required on the day immediately prior to your procedure.

What to expect after your surgery

After your procedure, Dr Chellappah will provide you with specific instructions regarding your post-operative care.

Any prescriptions for antibiotics, pain relief or mouthwash will also be given to you.

You will receive a follow-up phone call from Dr Chellappah or his staff the day after your surgery. If you remain in hospital, Dr Chellappah will continue to see you daily until you are discharged.

Some general considerations for the period immediately after any surgery are:

  • Rest at home after your surgery.

  • Do not drive, engage in active exercise or operate machinery until advised.

  • Take several days off from work, school or other duties as advised.

  • Do not drink any alcoholic beverages whilst you are taking pain killers or antibiotics.

  • Do not smoke for at least 5 days after your surgery or at all, if possible.

  • Pain may be minor in some people and greater in others. Dr Chellappah will prescribe appropriate pain relief for you.

  • Swelling almost always occurs after surgery and can vary from very little to severe. Most swelling takes four to five days to go down completely. Ice packs are recommended to reduce swelling and relieve pain and discomfort.

  • Gums may ooze blood slightly for a day after surgery. Apply pressure over the area of bleeding by biting gently but firmly on a piece of cotton gauze. The pressure helps stop bleeding and a blood clot will form.

  • You may be required to maintain a soft or non-chew (pureed) diet for some time after your surgery. Dr Chellappah will provide you with information relevant to your particular situation.

A post-operative follow-up appointment is usually scheduled for after your procedure, unless otherwise advised.

Dr Chellappah will also provide you with an emergency contact number if you have any concerns. Do not hesitate to contact him.