I've Had Surgery. What Now?

First, congratulations on completing your surgery. Our goal now is to facilitate the healing process and ensure the best possible result from your surgery.

The hospital will usually give you discharge instructions before you leave. It is extremely important that you follow these instructions, as failure to do so could "undo" the benefits for which we laid the groundwork during your surgery.

Most discharge instructions are as follows, but check the exact copy the hospital gives you to be sure:

• Keep your incision dry for 7-10 days. This means you should completely avoid showering or bathing, and use only a sponge bath to clean yourself when necessary.
• As along as your incision is draining, it should be covered.
• Once your incision is dry, it can be left open to air.
• Pain medications will usually be provided prior to discharge. Be sure to use these as directed.
• Activity restrictions or bracing instructions will also be provided prior to discharge and should be followed carefully.

A post-operative visit is usually scheduled 1-2 weeks after your operation and is often scheduled for you prior to your surgery.

Congratulations on being on the path to recovery. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us during our regular business hours. In the case of an emergency, you can contact the physician after hours by calling the office's main number and asking the answering service to page the physicians. Call 911 if you require immediate assistance.