After Your Procedure

Recovery Time

Depending upon your procedure, you will be ready to leave the Center approximately 30 minutes following surgery.

Instructions

You will be given specific discharge instructions from your physician. The post-operative instructions will be reviewed with the patient and escort.  Written copies will be sent home with the patient.

Transportation

The patient will not be permitted to leave alone following surgery.  Those riding in a cab must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Aftercare

The patient must have someone to stay with them for the first 24 hours after surgery.  After anesthesia the patient will not feel 100% normal; the recovery process will continue at home. It is natural to experience some discomfort in the area of the operation. Many procedures require post-op pain relief medications which alter your sense of balance and judgment. You may also experience some drowsiness or dizziness depending on the type of anesthesia you receive or on the amount of pain medication you are taking at home.  Take it easy until your physician says you can return to your normal routine.  Follow your physician’s instructions regarding diet, rest, and medication.

Do not drive, operate heavy machinery or power tools, cook, drink alcoholic beverages, make legal decisions or take any medications not prescribed by your physician for at least 24 hours after your surgery.

Contact your physician if you experience problems after discharge. If you cannot contact your doctor but feel your concerns warrant a doctor’s attention, call or go to the nearest emergency room.

It is very important to remember – you must have someone drive you home after your procedure.