I was told not to use a straw while drinking post op. Do you use a straw? Is this really something that should be avoided?

This is one of those topics that get a lot of debate. Some say never, some say a few weeks or months, some are given straws in the hospital.

I started using a straw about 3 weeks post op. I get more air without one than with, that's just me.

Here's how I look at a lot of the different surgeon's instructions on everything from post op diet, some people are on soft foods from day one, some, it takes a month. Also, caffeine, alcohol, straws and grapes. Yes, some are told to avoid grapes. I don't even get that one at all. The list goes on. In my opinion, first our surgeons give advice and instructions based on medical fact, medical opinion, covering their asses and lastly serving the lowest common denominator.

I think we need to take everything in and make the best decisions for us.

Hope that helps.

I wasn't much of a straw user anyway so I have not used one since surgery.

If you pay someone to do the surgery then you should do what they say they are the professionals.

I paid privately. All paper work sent to me sAod avoid using straws but the hospital gave me a straw every time. Weird???

I use a straw

Nope. Why?... Cause that's what the program says. In general I do try to follow the program. There are folks who do not succeed and I really don't want to be in that group. Am I perfect? No I drink coffee 1/2 and 1/2 decaf.

But in general, give yourself all the odds...

I started using a straw at about three weeks. I find I can sip and get less air with the straw. My surgeon was concerned that using straws will cause air and gas issues. Since I don't have that problem there isn't a concern using a straw.

I recommend following your surgeons guidelines until you can talk with him or her about it.

Ok, thanks for the replies. I was a straw user because of very sensitive teeth. I'm not a rule breaker but wanted to find out others opinions as I would like to use a straw. I see MD tomorrow and will talk about it.