the recovery
After surgery our recovery specialists will given post-op instructions. It is important to follow carefully. You will be provided with a script for medication, which you will need to purchase after surgery and instructions on when to take the medication over the days ahead. You will be discharged from hospital when your companion picks you up from the hospital. All patients must have a companion to stay with them for 72hours following surgery.
The first week after surgery you should stick to gentle day-to-day activities. This includes minimal house duties, no lifting, staying home as much as possible and sleeping in an elevated position. Commence postoperative exercise (instructions given post surgery).
In the second week of recovery try not to raise your blood pressure too much and still sleep in an upright position. Patients will also be required to attend a postoperative appointment at our office in week 2. this will be scheduled prior to surgery.
In week 2 patients may:
- Commence a light walk
- Return to work in week 2 if you have an office job with little physical activity
- Avoid sexual intercourse
- Start driving provided they are not taking any pain medication. We also recommend waiting 3 days for the medication to be out of your system.
What are the risks ?
All surgery can carry a degree of risk. Beyond the general risks of pain, infection or discomfort around the incisions, specific risks include tiredness, poor circulation in some areas of the skin, differences in abdomen symmetry, discomfort and numbness around the incision sites, the development of seroma/ fluid build up, and/or the development of blood clots in the legs or lung.
If you are concerned about possible complications, be sure to discuss them with your surgeon.