RECOVERING FROM SURGERY

HOW DO I OBTAIN A MEDICAL CERTIFICATE?

Please call the rooms after surgery and a certificate will be issued.

WHAT IF I FEEL NAUSEATED?

The most common cause is excess codeine or morphine.

WHAT IS THE PROCESS OF DISCHARGE FROM HOSPITAL?

You will be discharged when pain is controlled by oral medication and you are safely mobilising.

WHEN CAN I DRIVE?

Usually when you can fully mobilise, off heavy pain medication, not using orthotics and can access the car’s brakes/accelerator safely. This is typically after the first post-operative appointment at the earliest.

WHAT DO I DO WITH MY DRESSINGS AFTER THE OPERATION?

Keep the dressings intact and dry. You may need to use a plastic or garbage bag over your dressing and secure with tape when showering.

WHAT DO I DO IF MY DRESSINGS GET WET?

Take the dressings down and replace with another dressing (usually supplied).

WHAT IF MY BANDAGES BECOME BLOOD STAINED AND/OR TIGHT?

Contact the rooms and an appointment will be made to change your dressings.

WHEN WILL THE SWELLING GET BETTER?

Swelling often increases over the first 6 weeks and reduces over the next 6 weeks. Excessive swelling can sometimes lead to stiffness and nerve pain, so rest and elevation is important in the period right after surgery. Swelling will improve once mobility has returned and will continue to improve. Elevation of your limb within the first 1-2 weeks after surgery is absolutely essential as excessive swelling can lead to wound complications and delayed healing.

WHEN CAN I TRAVEL BY AEROPLANE?

You can travel at any time but there are increased risks of deep vein thrombosis during the first three months after surgery.

WILL I BEEP WHEN GOING THROUGH AIRPORT SECURITY?

Usually not, however in some cases your metalware may be detected.

WILL I HAVE PAIN AFTER THE OPERATION?

Some pain after surgery is unavoidable. If you experience severe pain that escalates rather than subsides then contact the rooms for an urgent review. There shouldn't be excessive pain after more than a few days after the operation.

WHAT IS MY EXPECTED TIMEFRAME FOR RECOVERY?

As a general guideline, you will reach around 60% recovery by 6 weeks, 80% recovery by 12 weeks. The last 20% may take 3-6-12 months to improve such as swelling and scar maturation.

This information is a brief overview of surgery management and not designed to be all-inclusive. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact your surgeon.