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Perioperative Medicine Clinic (POM)

After Surgery

Self-Care

Pain management

Take any medication as directed. Managing your pain is an important part of your recovery. Do not combine pain medications unless your doctor told you to. Many pain medications contain acetaminophen (Tylenol); too much acetaminophen can cause health problems. If you feel nauseated after taking prescription medication:

  • Take your medication after meals (unless we have instructed you not to do that).
  • Ask us to prescribe another type of pain medication.

Constipation

Constipation is common with use of certain medications, such as narcotic pain medications. Preventive measures include:

  • Drink plenty of water and other fluids every day as fluids help the fiber keep your stools soft.
  • Be sure to drink extra fluids in the morning
  • Eat plenty of high-fiber food such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, unless otherwise directed by your physician.
  • Ask your doctor about laxatives if you have not had a bowel movement for a couple of days.

Diet/Activity

Healthy eating

Eat a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables, lean protein foods, and whole grains. Limit fats, sweets, and alcohol. Drink plenty of water (unless your doctor has specified otherwise)

Modify Your Activities

  • Rest when you feel tired. Getting enough sleep will help you recover.
  • Walk daily on a flat surface at a gentle pace. Gradually increase the amount you walk each day. Walking boosts blood flow, keeps the lungs clear to prevent pneumonia, and prevents constipation.
  • Avoid lifting anything heavy such as a child, grocery bag, or backpack for 2 to 4 weeks.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise such as biking, jogging, and aerobic exercise until your doctor says it is okay.
  • Driving is usually okay when you are no longer taking pain medicine and can easily move your foot quickly from the gas pedal to the brake. Make sure you can sit comfortably in case your journey takes longer than expected.
  • Rest at home for 1 to 2 weeks. You should be able to return to your normal activities including work 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. If your surgery required a traditional open incision, you may need 4 to 6 weeks to recover fully.
  • Resume sexual activity whenever you feel able.

When to call us

If you have any medical or medication questions about your surgery, email your surgeon or call him or her.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You are nauseated and cannot drink fluids.
  • Your pain medication is not controlling your pain.
  • You have symptoms that may indicate infection, such as swelling, redness, and/or warmth around an incision; increasing pain; red streaks leading from an incision; yellow-brown discharge from an incision; or a fever over 101° F.
  • Bright red blood is soaking through the incision dressing.
  • You have symptoms that may indicate a blood clot, such as pain in your lower leg, back of knee, thigh, or groin; or redness and swelling in your groin or leg.
  • You are unable to urinate or have a bowel movement, especially if accompanied by swelling or pain in your lower abdomen.

You or your caregiver should call 911 if:

  • You have passed out (lost consciousness).
  • You have severe trouble breathing.
  • You develop sudden chest pain along with shortness of breath.
  • You cough up blood.