Post-Operative Instruction Sheet
After surgery there are several things that you or your family will probably experience. This sheet should help address many common questions or concerns.
Pain:
- Discomfort after surgery is very common. This may include a sore throat as well.
- Take prescribed pain medicine as directed on the bottle.
- Unless directed otherwise, over the counter ibuprofen is safe to take per the packaging guidelines.
- If you are on prescription aspirin, do not resume it until 2 weeks after surgery.
Diet:
- Drink lots of “clear” liquids the first few days after surgery, such as water and dilute fruit juices.
- Eat a bland diet initially after surgery, slowly advance to your normal diet.
Medications:
- You may be prescribed some new medications after surgery (such as antibiotics).
- You may resume your other normal home medications (except aspirin) after surgery.
Wound Care:
- A small amount of bleeding or swelling after surgery is normal for the first few days. IF there is excessive or prolonged bleeding or swelling, please call the office or proceed to the emergency room.
- Watch for signs of a wound infection: worsening redness and heat, foul drainage, increasing severe pain. Call the office or proceed to the emergency room if you consistently notice these signs.
- The following pertains to you:
- You have absorbable stitches covered with an adherent dressing. Keep the incision clean and dry. Do not remove the adherent dressing for at least 1 week.
- You have stitches that need to be removed. Keep the incision site clean with warm water and hydrogen peroxide. Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment 1-2 times per day.
- Unless directed otherwise, you may shower 48 hours after surgery. Do not scrub or submerge the incision site.
Other Concerns:
- Avoid straining, heavy lifting over 10-15 pounds, and vigorous exercise for 2 weeks after surgery.
If problems or questions arise, please call the office at (458) 205-6500.
