REST
Go home and rest
Sleep with your head elevated and knees bent up for the first week to reduce tension on the abdomen
Walk bent from the middle
When resting, flex calves to maintain leg circulation and avoid clots in the veins of your legs
Keep stockings on for 2 weeks post-operatively

BLEEDING
Minor bleeding which may show through the dressing for the first 24 – 48 hours post-op is normal
If bleeding is prolonged or heavy contact Dr Yang
One drain will be removed prior to your discharge from hospital
The second drain will stay in place at least until the drainage is less than 30mls in 24hour period
Please keep a record of your drainage every 24 hrs

WOUND CARE
Bring your supportive garment to hospital.  Once the dressings are removed the garment is to be worn day and night for 6 weeks but may be removed for showering.
Please leave tape insitu until your post op appointment where you will be given instructions on how to change and care for your suture line.

PAIN RELIEF
The Anaesthetist will prescribe a script for pain relief sufficient for 1 week.  Regular Paracetomal is ideal or Panadeine if something stronger is needed.
An anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen or diclofenac can also be taken in conjunction with panadol
Contact Dr Yang if pain relief is inadequate

CONSTIPATION
Maintain daily soft bowel motions by having a daily intake of prune/pear juice
Gentle physical activity like walking will also help to encourage regular motions
Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day

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 6 weeks post-operatively
Avoid sexual activity for 4 weeks post- op
Try gentle exercise, i.e. walking or isometric exercise (tensing muscle groups for 6 seconds at a time)

EMERGENCY
If you are unable to contact Dr Yang, please present to Greenslopes Hospital, if possible, or at another hospital & ask your treating doctor to call Dr Yang.