After Your Surgery

Patients are discharged when medically stable, according to physician orders.

Please refer to the following general instructions and information:

• Patients often experience minor after effects following anesthesia such as drowsiness, muscle weakness, sore throat, headaches and dizziness.
• Nausea may also be present but vomiting is less likely.
• Side effects normally decline rapidly in the hours following surgery, but may take several days to clear completely.
• The majority of patients will not feel up to typical activities the following day, this is usually due to tiredness or surgical discomfort.  Patients should plan and expect to take it easy for a few days after any procedure.

Verbal and written Post Surgical Care Instructions will be given to each patient.  These instructions may include home care, what to expect and important phone numbers. A member of the healthcare team will discuss these instructions with the patient and responsible party prior to release. All patients are advised to contact the surgeon for unanticipated side effects.  For life threatening conditions, patients should go to the nearest emergency center or call 9-1-1.

Prescriptions for medications to take home are often given for pain control and nausea.  Patients should carefully follow any instructions provided.

A member of the healthcare team will attempt to contact each patient within 48 hours after the surgery.  The purpose of this call is to ask the patient about the healing process.

Transportation: DO NOT PLAN TO DRIVE yourself home or use public transportation after your procedure. A friend or relative or dedicated caregiver MUST stay with you for 24 hours.