St Augustines W - 031-201 1019 |
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
MBChB [UCT] FC Plast Surg [SA] Fellow [Oxford-UK]
O'Sharran R.Singh
FOR DR SINGH
Discharge from the ward
Manage your pain
Surgical site care
The following instructions will guide you through recovery and will help prevent complications
- If you have had a minor procedure-after being in theatre recovery area-you will be wheeled up to the ward and can go home as soon as your medication is ready and discharge has been done-this usually takes about an hour.
- With larger procedures-I might choose to see you in the ward before you are discharged the same day/day after.
- Follow up-I will let you know when you will be reviewed-its usually 5-7 days after surgery.
- You are encouraged to take your medication as needed. A pain free patient is a happy patient, your wounds will recover better and it has been shown to give a better result.
- Follow the instructions by Dr Singh and the nursing care on your discharge from hospital about:
- Keeping wounds dry-generally for 2-3 days
- Dressing changes-after 3-5 days
- What to apply onto the wound –usually an antibacterial ointment with gauze
- My team will instruct you on how to manage your drain
- Liposuction ooze is expected for 3-4 days post op
- Stitches are to be removed-from 7-10 days
Mobilising
- It is imperative to walk as soon as possible to prevent clots in your legs and clear your lungs.
- If your legs have been operated on, bed rest with strict leg elevation is important for 3-5 days.
- If you have had a tummy tuck-you will have to sleep with pillows under your legs and crouch over when walking for at least 1 week.
- Always get assistance if you are still weak or at risk of a fall.
- Limit brisk activity for 6 weeks post op.
- Driving should only be undertaken at least 4 weeks post op and when you are able to drive round the block and perform an emergency stop.
Other Specific Orders
- Do not smoke for at least 6 weeks after surgery-skin can die, wounds can open up
- Brush your teeth 3 times a day should you have had intraoral/lip/facial surgery
- Resume your normal diet at home-preferably high in protein, consume lots of water and something to assist your normal bowel motions-certain medications could give you diarrhea or constipation.
- Antibiotics if prescribed, must be completed, however should you develop an adverse reaction of nausea I recommend the addition of a probiotic.
- Thrush is a common side effect on antibiotics and this can be alleviated with medication from a pharmacy.
- Pressure garments must be worn for at least 3 weeks continuously post op
- Keep the scar out of direct sunlight for 3 months-it prevents it darkening
Reconstructive Procedures
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