Post Operative Instructions
Your recovery is an important part of your surgical outcome. Please follow these guidelines and the instructions provided by your surgeon.
- Activity & Rest:
- Rest as needed, especially during the first few days after surgery.
- Avoid lifting, twisting, or bending unless cleared to do so.
- Use any braces, slings, or supports as instructed.
- Walking short distances is encouraged unless otherwise directed.
- Do not drive until you are off prescription pain medication and cleared by your provider.
2. Wound & Incision Care:
- Keep the incision clean and dry. Do not scrub the area.
- Follow specific instructions for changing bandages or showering.
- All dressings should be removed day 2 following surgery unless otherwise directed. Continue to keep the incision clean and dry.
- Optional but not necessary: you may place a non-occlusive dressing over the surgical site.
- If there is no dressing and the incision is sealed with glue, you may get the incision wet, but do not submerge the incision for 2 weeks.
- Do not apply ointments, powders, or lotions unless told to do so.
- Watch for signs of infection: redness, swelling, drainage, or odor.
3. Pain Management & Medications:
- Take medications only as prescribed. Do not exceed recommended doses.
- Use pain medication sparingly. If you feel it is not helping, call the office.
- Avoid NSAIDs (like Advil or Aleve) unless approved by your surgeon.
- Resume other medications as instructed by your healthcare provider.
4. Diet, Hydration & Bowel Care:
- Start with light meals and clear fluids. Resume normal diet as tolerated.
- Drink plenty of fluids unless on fluid restriction.
- Use stool softeners if prescribed. Constipation is common after anesthesia and pain medication.
5. Follow-Up Appointments:
- Attend all scheduled follow-ups for wound checks, stitch removal, or imaging.
- Bring a list of questions or concerns to your appointment.
If you do not hear from the office within 24 hours of returning home from surgery, please call the office for a post operative appointment.
If at any point you have concerns, please call our office at (631) 500-9400.