In the recovery room, nurses will monitor your breathing and vital signs.
You may have a facial mask or small tubes in your nostrils giving you extra oxygen until you’re fully awake.
Once you’ve recovered from the anaesthetic, you’ll be taken to a ward to rest until you’re well enough to go home.
You’ll need to have gone to the toilet and had something to eat and drink before being allowed to go home. In most cases, this will be on the same day. You won’t be able to drive after the anaesthetic and will need someone to accompany you home. If this is difficult, please advise your doctor or hospital beforehand.
Usually, dissolvable stitches will be used and the wound will be covered with a dressing to keep it clean and protected.
Before discharge, you should be given instructions about what to expect over the following couple of days. You should be clear on the following issues:
- wound care
- activity and lifting
- returning to work
- driving (don’t forget to check if your car insurance company has any restrictions following an operation).
You should also be told who to contact if you have any problems or concerns after your operation. As a guide, you should seek help if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- swelling or redness around the incision
- seepage or bloody discharge from the wound
- fever and chills
- swollen abdomen
- pain that is not relieved by prescribed pain medication.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Information is provided by HCF in good faith for the convenience of members. It is not an endorsement or recommendation of any form of treatment nor is it a substitute for medical advice, and you should rely on the advice of your treating doctors in relation to all matters concerning your health. Every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, however HCF takes no responsibility for any injury, loss, damage or other consequences of the use of this information.