Please read the following information carefully:
- You will need to have a responsible adult pick you up following surgery and stay with you for the first 24 hours.
- You may resume showering the day after surgery. Please remove bandages first and then gently wash your incisions with soap and running water daily. Dab dry afterwards. Please lightly apply Vaseline to the incision sites and then apply band-aids or gauze dressings.
- You may apply cold compresses for 15 minutes every hour or so for the first 48 hours after surgery to reduce swelling and discomfort. Please place a face cloth in between the cold compress and your skin to lower risk of frostbite injury.
- Do not apply Polysporin as many patients will develop a reaction following prolonged use, which may resemble a wound infection
- Smoking cessation is recommended for 4 weeks pre- and post-operatively to decrease risk of infection and wound healing complications. Nicotine supplements are also not recommended given similar risk of complications.
- Advil, Aleve, and other anti-inflammatories may increase your risk of mild bleeding and should be avoided if possible.
- It is important to avoid any heavy lifting over 5 lbs, strenuous activity, and exercise for one month following surgery. Any activity that increases your heart rate and blood pressure increases your risk of bleeding and increased swelling.
- Please take the prescription pain medication as prescribed. After a few days, you may begin transitioning to Tylenol plain or extra-strength as needed. You should refrain from driving while taking prescription pain medication.
- General anesthetic and post-operative medications may have side effects, such as nausea and constipation. Over-the-counter medications may be useful in minimizing these symptoms. Gravol may reduce nausea. Colace is an option for constipation if required.
- Your sutures will be removed 10-14 days following surgery during follow up.
- After surgery, it is recommended to mobilize around your home as much as you feel comfortable. Walking short distances around your home may lower risk of complications, such as blood clots (DVT or PE).
- You will receive an appointment card for follow up in your post-operative packet.
- If you have any concerns regarding the following, please call Dr. Power immediately:
- Leg swelling
- Shortness of breath
- Redness surrounding the incisions
- Increased pain at the incisions
- Increased or excessive swelling and/or firmness at the surgical site
If you have any questions during your post-operative course, please do not hesitate to contact our office.
Dr. Power’s after-hours contact information will be provided.
