1. Upon leaving the operating room, a support garment will be placed on you. This garment is to remain in place continuously for 48 hours after surgery, or as instructed by your doctor. After the first 48 hours, you may remove the garment to shower only. This garment is an essential factor in promoting a safe and comfortable post-operative period. The garment compresses the involved area to reduce swelling (edema) and help promote skin conformity. You are to wear this garment until instructed by your doctor, usually for six weeks. You must wear the garment continuously; removing it for only short periods of time to shower. If you start to feel itchy due to the garment after several days, you may wear a cotton t-shirt and place the garment over it. This will help alleviate the itch.

2. Your doctor may recommend the use of surgical compression foam for at least two weeks to promote adherence of the skin to the tissue underneath.

3. Swelling and drainage are normal.

4. You may shower 48 hours after your surgery. No soaking in water for 4 weeks.

5. No heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 6 weeks

6. Drink plenty of fluids. It is easy to become dehydrated after surgery.

7. If you are discharged with an oral antibiotic, complete the entire prescribed course.

8. All surgical patients are at risk for clots in the legs that can travel through the body. Please walk every 2-3 hours while awake. Pump calves when sitting for long stretches of time to discourage the formation of blood clots. Purchasing and wearing compression socks at all times for two weeks after surgery will also help reduce this risk.

9. If you experience pain, please take your prescribed medications as directed. Remember to take it with food. Avoid Aspirin or any Aspirin related medications (Motrin, Advil, Naprosyn, etc.) for at least 2 weeks after surgery. REFER TO YOUR LIST OF MEDICATIONS NOT TO TAKE. These can cause bleeding. You may take Extra Strength Tylenol in place of your prescription pain medication. Keep in mind that pain medication may cause nausea. Do not take more than the recommended amount of Tylenol.

10. Call the office immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms: Temperature above 101.8°F, shakes and chills, excessive bleeding from incision site/s.

Any questions or concerns please call the office at (801)756-5600.