What is Exparel?
Exparel® is a long-acting, non-opioid medication used to manage pain after surgery. It is a form of local anesthetic (bupivacaine) that is specially formulated to release slowly over time. When placed around the surgical area at the end of a procedure, it helps control pain for up to 3-4 days.
Why We Recommend Exparel:
- Long-lasting relief: Provides continuous pain control for 3-4 days after surgery, when discomfort is usually the greatest.
- Reduces need for opioids: Many patients can significantly limit or even avoid narcotic pain medications, lowering risks of side effects like drowsiness, nausea, and constipation.
- Better recovery experience: Patients often report improved comfort and ability to resume daily activities sooner.
- Targeted pain control: Works directly at the surgical site instead of affecting the whole body.
Why We Recommend Exparel:
Exparel can be recommended for patients undergoing oral and maxillofacial procedures—such as wisdom teeth removal, jaw surgery, bone grafting, or dental implant surgery—who desire stronger and longer-lasting pain relief without heavy reliance on narcotics.