After Your Surgery

Everything you need to know to ensure a smooth, comfortable experience with us.

General Discharge Instructions

Your recovery begins the moment your procedure is complete. The following general guidelines will help you transition safely to recovering at home. Please also refer to the specific instructions provided by your surgeon.

Facility Highlight

Diet and Activity

  • Resume your usual diet as tolerated. It is best to start with liquids and bland foods before progressing to heavy meals.
  • Do NOT drink alcoholic beverages for 24 hours, OR while taking prescription pain medications.
  • The effects of anesthesia may last 24 hours or longer. Do NOT drive, operate machinery, or make critical decisions for the remainder of the day.
  • Do NOT engage in sports, heavy work, or heavy lifting for the next 24 hours. Follow your surgeon's specific guidance on using your surgical extremity.

Wound Care & Medications

  • Keep your incision and dressing clean and dry. Do NOT remove the dressing unless instructed by your surgeon.
  • You may resume showering tomorrow, but you must cover the dressing. Do NOT soak the wound in a tub, pool, or jacuzzi.
  • Fill your prescriptions immediately and take medications exactly as prescribed.
  • A limited amount of discomfort, swelling, and bruising is to be expected. You may begin taking your prescription pain medication as directed.

When to Call Your Surgeon

Notify your surgeon immediately if you experience excessive bleeding, or signs of infection such as redness, swelling, pus, unusual drainage, or a fever over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.