Neck Dissection
Post Operative Information
1.) It is normal to experience some temporary pain, swelling, bruising or numbness
around the site of your incision.
2.) Avoid vigorous exercise, straining or lifting anything greater than 20 pounds for
one week after surgery. This can increase the risk of bleeding.
3.) Take pain medications as needed for pain. Do not operate any vehicles if you are
taking prescription strength pain medications.
4.) Apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment (e.g., Bacitracin) to your incision 3
times a day. It is important to keep your incision moist with this antibiotic
ointment to decrease the risk of infection or poor wound healing.
5.) Your doctor may have inserted a small plastic drain under the skin after surgery to
prevent the build up of fluids. This is generally removed the day after surgery.
Care for it as the nurses instructed you at the hospital. You should record how
much fluid collects and empty it 3 times a day.
6.) Do not get your incision wet from bathing or swimming until 48 hrs after surgery.
7.) Any staples or stitches will be removed in clinic 7-14 days after surgery.
8.) If you are having a lot swelling in your neck, it may help to sleep with the head
elevated 30-45 degrees for the first several days. The skin around the incision may
look swollen after lying down for several hours.
9.) Call you doctor if you experience:
*Difficulty breathing or swallowing
*Neck swelling
*Bleeding from the wound
*Fever greater than 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit
*Purulent discharge (pus) coming from the wound
*Increasing redness around the wound
Jeffrey J. Dyer, M.D.
Christopher L. Lykins, M.D
Samuel S. Bailey, M.D.
Lindsay A. Osborne, PA-C
ENTEGRITY Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists
6950 E Chauncey Lane, Suite 100
Phoenix, AZ 85054
Ph: (480) 538-3200 Fax: (480) 538-3210
www.entegrityent.com