Home Care after Surgery

Caring for yourself at home & preventing complications

Your physical and occupational therapists will recommend any necessary equipment, such as a walker, cane, shower chair or commode (portable toilet). This equipment will be delivered to the hospital before you leave or to your home. There is no need to buy them ahead of time.

Caring for your incision

• Keep your incision clean and dry
• Do not get your incision wet until you have been instructed to do so
• Avoid soaking your incision in a tub bath, hot tub or participating in water activities until instructed by your surgeon to do so
• Notify your surgeon or nurse if there are any signs of infection, such as:
  • Increased drainage
  • Redness
  • Pain
  • Odor
  • Heat around the incision
  • Fever

Driving

You will not be able to drive for the first few weeks after surgery unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

Sexual activity

You may resume sexual activity — with caution — once your surgeon clears you. If you have any questions about observing precautions, do not hesitate to ask your surgeon.