Oral Leukoplakia: Recovery and Post-Laser Surgery Concerns

Oral issues

Hello Doctor, I had an oral leukoplakia biopsy and laser surgery on November 18th.
Today, I noticed that while the wound is gradually healing, there is still some leukoplakia present (it's not fully healed yet).
The doctor mentioned that the biopsy results were benign.
I would like to ask if it is normal for leukoplakia to still appear after laser treatment, and even though I didn't have as much leukoplakia before, it has now turned into a white patch after the laser procedure.
Is this normal? Thank you, Doctor.

hou, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/12/02

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, regarding your question about the oral leukoplakia biopsy and laser surgery, if it is confirmed to be benign tissue, the wound should gradually heal.
If you maintain a light diet and rinse your mouth after meals to keep oral hygiene, but the wound has not healed after more than two weeks, it is advisable to return to the original surgeon for a follow-up examination.
Wishing you safety and health.

Sincerely,
Dr.
Chi Chao-Yun,
Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/12/02

More Info

After undergoing laser surgery for oral leukoplakia, it is common to have concerns about the healing process and the appearance of the surgical site. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing some typical post-operative symptoms, including the presence of white patches at the surgical site.
Firstly, it is important to understand that leukoplakia is a condition characterized by white patches in the oral cavity, which can be benign or potentially precancerous. The fact that your biopsy results came back benign is reassuring. However, the healing process can vary from person to person, and it is not uncommon for the area to appear white during recovery. This whiteness can be attributed to several factors, including the formation of new tissue, scar tissue, or even the presence of keratin, which is a protein that can accumulate in healing tissues.

The white patches you are observing may be part of the normal healing process. After laser surgery, the treated area undergoes a regeneration phase where the body works to repair the tissue. During this time, it is possible for the area to appear different than it did prior to the procedure. The presence of white tissue does not necessarily indicate a recurrence of leukoplakia or an infection; rather, it may be a sign of the body’s natural healing response.

However, it is essential to monitor the area for any changes. If the white patches persist for an extended period, or if you experience increased pain, swelling, or any other concerning symptoms, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation to ensure that the healing process is proceeding as expected and to rule out any complications.

In terms of recovery, it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene to support healing. This includes gentle brushing of the teeth and avoiding irritants such as tobacco, alcohol, and spicy foods, which can exacerbate discomfort and potentially interfere with the healing process. Additionally, staying hydrated and following any post-operative care instructions provided by your healthcare provider will aid in recovery.

Regarding the concern about the white patches potentially being a sign of leukoplakia returning, it is important to note that while leukoplakia can recur, the appearance of white tissue after surgery does not automatically indicate a recurrence. Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are essential for monitoring the area and ensuring that any new changes are addressed promptly.

In summary, the presence of white patches after laser surgery for oral leukoplakia can be a normal part of the healing process. It is essential to keep an eye on the area and maintain good oral hygiene. If you have any concerns about the healing process or the appearance of the surgical site, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. Regular follow-ups will help ensure that any potential issues are identified and managed appropriately, allowing for a smooth recovery.

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