General Post Operative Instructions
General Post-Operative Instructions
Applies to all patients — please read before reviewing your procedure-specific page
Activity & Rest
• Rest is essential for the first 24–72 hours after surgery. Plan to have a responsible adult with you for the first night.
• No driving for at least 24 hours after anesthesia, or while taking prescription pain medications.
• Walking short distances is encouraged starting the day after surgery to reduce the risk of blood clots.
• Avoid strenuous activity (exercise, heavy lifting, bending, straining) until cleared by Dr. Yazid at your follow-up.
• No swimming, hot tubs, or soaking incisions until fully healed — usually 4–6 weeks minimum.
Diet & Hydration
• Start with clear liquids and light foods after surgery. Nausea is common after anesthesia.
• Stay well hydrated — aim for 8–10 glasses of water per day.
• A high-protein diet supports healing. Include eggs, chicken, fish, beans, and Greek yogurt.
• Avoid alcohol for at least 2 weeks after surgery, or while taking prescription medications.
• Minimize salty and processed foods to reduce swelling.
Wound Care Basics
• Keep dressings clean and dry until instructed otherwise at your follow-up.
• Do not pick, scratch, or peel any scabs or tape — let them fall off naturally.
• If you have surgical tape (Steri-Strips), leave them in place — they will loosen on their own.
• Report any increasing redness, warmth, drainage, or odor from the wound immediately.
• Do not apply lotions, creams, or ointments to incisions unless specifically instructed.
Medications
• Take all prescribed medications exactly as directed.
• Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), or other NSAIDs unless specifically approved — these increase bleeding risk.
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is safe for mild pain unless contraindicated.
• Resume regular medications only as directed — some may need to be temporarily held.
• Do not take herbal supplements (fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, St. John's Wort) until cleared — they can affect bleeding.
What to Expect
• Swelling and bruising are normal and peak around days 2–3, then gradually improve.
• Mild to moderate pain is expected — take medications as prescribed and stay ahead of the pain.
• Fatigue is very common after surgery, even minor procedures. Rest when your body asks.
• Numbness or tingling around the incision is normal and typically resolves over weeks to months.
• Healing is not linear — some days you may feel worse before you feel better.
