REST
Go home and rest
When resting, flex calves by pointing toes towards ceiling then towards the ground. This will maintain leg circulation & avoid clots in the veins of your legs. Do this 10 times per hour. Do not cross your legs
BLEEDING
Wear dark, old, loose fitting clothes. You will have a fair amount of bloody ooze
Bruising, ranging from purple through to yellow is normal
WOUND CARE/ GARMENT
You now have surgical drains in place
Do not shower or remove surgical dressings until your post-operative appointment.
The drains will stay in place until this appointment
Record the drainage amount every 24hrs
All adhesive surgical tapes covering your wounds must be left intact until you return for your 1st post-operative appointment
Limit your movement
The garment is to be worn day and night for 6 weeks only to be removed for showering
Swelling and bruising will be evident
PAIN RELIEF
The anaesthetist will provide script for pain relief – sufficient for a week. If you run out, Panadol should be adequate
Contact Dr Yang if pain relief is inadequate
INFECTION
Wound infection is an infrequent occurrence. Contact Dr Yang if you experience:
Increased pain, temperature and flu-like symptoms
Widespread redness
Offensive discharge coming from the wound
EXERCISE
Avoid strenuous lifting, aerobic exercises and swimming for 6weeks post-operatively
Try gentle exercise only after discussion with the nurse at your post-operative appointment, i.e. slow walking
Drive a motor vehicle only when safe to drive. This is usually 1-2 weeks after surgery. Always wear your seatbelt
EMERGENCY
In the unlikely event that you cannot contact Dr Yang in an emergency, please present to Greenslopes Hospital Emergency Department for treatment, if possible, or at another hospital and ask your treating doctor to call Dr Yang
