Apply warm and dry compresses, a heating pad set on low, or a hot water bottle 3 or 4 times a day for pain. Keep a cloth between the heat source and your skin to reduce swelling and promote drainage.
Do not apply ice to this area. To minimize swelling keep your head elevated. Use several pillows and prop your head and torso upright while sleeping.
If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
Take pain medicines exactly as directed:
If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
Keep your bandage clean and dry. Change the bandage whenever it gets wet or dirty, or at least one time a day.
If the abscess was packed with gauze:
Keep follow-up appointments to have the gauze changed or removed. If the doctor instructed you to remove the gauze, follow the instructions you were given for how to remove it.
After the gauze is removed, soak the area in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes 2 times a day, until the wound closes.
Drink plenty of fluids.
Avoid smoking for as long as possible following the procedure. The use of tobacco products slows down the healing process and may lead to developing other complications.