What to expect after surgery:

 

• You need to go straight home after the procedure is performed and you are discharged  from the hospital.

• You may resume light duty tomorrow.

• No heavy lifting greater than 25 lbs for 2-6 weeks.

• Upon discharge, you will be able to tolerate regular diet.

  • (Your surgeon will advise specifics.)

  • (You may be given more specific dietary instructions upon discharge by your surgeon.)

•  You may shower the day after surgery.

• No baths for 2 weeks.

• You may drive when you are not on narcotics and able to slam on the brakes without hesitation.

• You may wish to try this in your driveway to simulate a sudden traffic stop.

• It is our practice not to call in narcotics after 5pm or on weekends. So, please make plans accordingly.

• You will get ample narcotics upon discharge.

• Should you need further narcotics please call the office to return earlier for follow up.

• Bowel movements every day or every other day should be expected but, constipation can be frequent.

•  You may use 

  •  MiraLax 17 grams by mouth daily or twice a day to stimulate bowel movements,

  •  milk of magnesia 30 cc by mouth every 4 hours as an alternative, 

  •  and/or Dulcolax suppository twice a day may stimulate desired effect.

• You will have small band-aid like dressings. Try to keep these in place until day 2 or 3. 

• However, if they fall off it is okay and no further treatment is required.

• They usually will fall off on their own within 5-7 days. If they are bothersome you may peel them off after day 2.

• You should have a post-op follow up appointment after discharge. This is usually for 1-2 weeks. If you do not have one please call the office to arrange one at 256-386-1125.

• Some bleeding (oozing) may be normal.

• If present, hold pressure for approximately 10-15 minutes over site and usually this will take care of troublesome bleeding.

• You should return earlier or call the office/on call surgeon if:

• Increased pain at incision not relieved by medication but, not so troublesome that an ER visit is warranted.

• Increased drainage from incision or foul smelling purulent drainage is noted.

• Fever greater than 100.5.

• Nausea or vomiting.

• Constipation not relieved by MiraLax, milk of magnesia, or Dulcolax for greater than 2-3 

• Slight increase in abdominal pain or distention.

• You should report to the ER immediately if:

  • Shortness of breath or chest pain.

  • Fever greater than 101 without response to antipyretics (Tylenol, ibuprofen, etc.)

  • Intractable nausea and vomiting with inability to hold down liquids.

  • Hypotension, dizziness, excessive fatigue, worsening abdominal pain despite adequate pain medication.

  • Bleeding not controlled with direct pressure or substantial bleeding.