General Surgery Post-Operative Instructions Wound Care If you have a clear see-through bandage over the incision, you may take a shower. The bandage is waterproof It is not uncommon for some reddish fluid to accumulate under the plastic bandage. This is no cause for alarm. After 3 days the clear see-through bandage can be removed. The date of your surgery will be arranged by our practice. If you have a gauze bandage over the incision, keep it dry and clean. You can remove it 48 hours after the surgery and can shower. If you have narrow white tape strips over the incision (steri-strips), keep it dry and clean for 48 hours. After 48 hours you may shower. Do NOT remove the steri strips unless they are almost falling off. (If you remove them too soon you risk pulling the incision apart). Staples or sutures are removed within 7-14 days after surgery. Some incisions have buried absorbable sutures which do not need removed. If you notice any extreme redness, swelling, or drainage coming from the wound, please notify our office.
Pain Medication Before you leave the hospital the nurse will give you instructions about what pain medications to take. Over-the-counter pain relief medications ( like Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen) are usually sufficient to treat your pain. A prescription for pain medication may be provided if required. It is important to tell your doctor of any allergies you have. Follow the directions on the label and from the pharmacist. Do not take pain medication on an empty stomach. Do not drive or operative heavy machinery if taking prescription opiates. Some pain medications cause constipation. It is important to eat a high fiber diet, or if needed, take a stool softener. If you no longer need to take the prescription pain medication, you may take over-the-counter medication like Tylenol (Acetaminophen) or Advil (Ibuprofen).
Activity It is important to have someone at home to help you after your surgery. Rest when you feel tired or are in a lot of discomfort. It is important to listen to your body. Walking up and down stairs is ok to do after your surgery. You may begin normal daily activities 24 hours after surgery as tolerated. Movement is important after surgery and aides in recovery. Try to avoid laying down all day. Do not lift anything over 15lbs or as directed by your surgeon for first 4 weeks after your surgery.