Follow Up Appointment
If you have not already been given an appointment for follow up, you should contact our office. In most cases this will be 3-4 weeks after being discharged home.
Wounds
• In most cases you will have hidden dissolvable stitches which do not require removal.
• Occasionally staples are used, in which case you will be told when they require removal. You will be given a staple remover which you should bring to your appointment.
• You should keep the wound(s) clean and dry.
• You should use a wound dressing for 7 days after discharge.
• You can change the dressing as required.
• Most wounds heal well but if the wound becomes painful, red, develops a lump or discharges fluid, pus or blood then you need to be reviewed.
Driving
• You must not drive a motor vehicle on the same day after an anaesthetic or sedation.
• You should not drive after surgery until you can sit comfortably in the vehicle and drive in full control including being able to brake in an emergency.
• You may not be covered by insurance if you drive too soon after surgery or an anaesthetic.
Physical Activity
• Your Surgeon will advise how long you will need to avoid strenuous physical activity and heavy lifting.
• For minor procedures this may be 1-2 weeks.
• For major procedures this could be over 6-8 weeks.
• You should slowly and gradually return to full activity and avoid activities that cause significant pain or discomfort.
Time off work
• Your Surgeon will advise how long you need off work.
• Please contact our office if you require a medical certificate.
Diet
• Unless you have been given specific instructions you should follow a generally healthy diet whilst recovering from surgery.
Bowel Function
• Constipation is common following major surgery.
• Make sure you drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
• You may need additional medication from your pharmacy to help. We suggest “Coloxyl” tablets and “Lactulose” liquid.
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