Updated 2/1/06

Pain

The amount of pain you might experience after your surgery varies widely depending on many factors including the type of procedure performed and your pain tolerance. 

In some cases, your doctor may have given you a nerve block after your surgery to decrease the amount of pain that you might experience.  This may cause some numbness in certain parts of your body depending on where this block was administered.  The amount of time the block may last is variable, but can last anywhere from a few hours to 24 hours. 

A prescription for a pain medication will be provided to you before you leave the hospital.  In many instances this will be a narcotic, which should only be used on an as needed basis.  This medication may cause some unwanted side effects such as mental status changes and constipation.  Do not drive a car, operate heavy machinery, or make any important decisions after your surgery.  Also, notify your doctor of any allergies that conflict with your medications. 

Eating and drinking after your surgery: 

It is not uncommon for the anesthesia to cause nausea or even vomiting after the surgery.  It is recommended that once you feel hungry to start with some simple fluids first, and if tolerated, to advance to easily digested foods such as crackers and soups prior to full and heavy meals. 

Postoperative followup:

Your doctor will discuss the results of your surgery either in the recovery room or over the next few days.  Often many things that are discussed with you in the recovery room will be forgotten due to the effects of the anesthesia.

Call the office after your surgery to confirm an appointment for your postoperative followup.  The amount of time for your followup can vary depending on the type of your surgery and your surgeon’s preference.