Post-Operative Comfort with Exparel®: Advanced Pain Control After Oral Surgery in Tuscaloosa

Why Pain Management Matters

After oral surgery procedures—such as wisdom tooth removal, dental implant placement, bone grafting, or corrective jaw surgery—patients often expect discomfort, swelling, and sensitivity. At University Oral & Facial Surgery, P.C., our goal is to not only perform safe, effective surgery, but also to provide you with a smooth, more comfortable recovery. For some patients, we can offer Exparel®, a long-lasting local anesthetic, as an option to help manage pain from the very start.

What Is Exparel®?Exparel logo

  • Exparel® (liposomal bupivacaine) is a sustained-release formulation of a local anesthetic that delivers medication slowly over time.

  • Unlike traditional local anesthetics—which may wear off within hours—Exparel® can provide pain relief for up to 72 hours in many cases.

  • It is FDA-approved and administered directly by your surgeon at the surgical site.

How University Oral & Facial Surgery, P.C. Uses Exparel®

Our surgical team integrates Exparel® into your postoperative management plan in ways that optimize both comfort and safety:

  1. Strategic Placement During Surgery
    At the conclusion of your procedure, Exparel® is carefully administered at the surgical site (such as extraction sockets, bone graft areas, implant sites, or around nerves). Since this is done while you are already anesthetized, you won’t feel the application.

  2. Part of a Multi-Modal Approach
    Exparel® is combined with other proven methods—such as non-opioid medications, precise surgical techniques, and postoperative care instructions. This layered approach maximizes comfort and minimizes opioid reliance.

  3. Personalized Dosing
    The way Exparel® is used depends on your procedure, anatomy, and medical history. Each treatment plan is customized to you.

Benefits of Exparel®

  • Extended pain relief for up to 72 hours after surgery

  • Reduced need for opioids, decreasing risks of nausea, drowsiness, constipation, and dependence

  • Improved comfort during the most challenging recovery period

  • Faster return to normal activities with less disruption to eating, sleeping, and daily life

What Patients Should Know

  • Duration: You may still experience discomfort as Exparel® wears off, but it helps significantly reduce peak pain levels.

  • Safety: Exparel® is well-studied and safe when administered by trained oral and maxillofacial surgeons.

  • Not for everyone: Some patients may not be candidates due to medical conditions, allergies, or other considerations. We will review your case thoroughly.

  • Coverage: Insurance coverage varies. Our staff will help you understand any potential costs before your procedure.

Examples of Use at University Oral & Facial Surgery, P.C.Man looking in mirror after oral surgery

Recovery Timeline with Exparel®

Time After Surgery Expected Sensations Recommendations
First few hours Numbness, mild pressure Rest, apply cold compresses
12–48 hours Reduced pain compared to traditional recovery Follow diet and medication instructions
48–72 hours Gradual tapering of discomfort Transition to over-the-counter medications if needed
After 72 hours Mild residual soreness Continue standard recovery care

Why Choose University Oral & Facial Surgery, P.C. for Pain Management

At University Oral & Facial Surgery, P.C., patient comfort is just as important as surgical precision. We may offer advanced options such as Exparel® as part of your postoperative pain-management plan to help minimize discomfort during the most challenging days of recovery. However, eligibility depends on your specific situation: 

  • Minimize pain during the most difficult days of recovery

  • Reduce dependence on opioid medications

  • Personalize pain management plans for each patient

  • Enhance your overall recovery experience

If you are preparing for oral surgery and would like to learn more about Exparel® as part of your postoperative plan, please ask our team during your consultation. At University Oral & Facial Surgery, P.C., we are dedicated to making your recovery as comfortable as possible.