You may shower after your first post-operative visit. Your provider will review this with you at your first post-operative appointment.
DO NOT change your bandages. Your providers will do this for you at each appointment.
Only change your dressings if instructed to do so by your provider. Always wash your hands and wear gloves to do so.
Wear your compression garment day and night except for during showers for 6 weeks after surgery, unless otherwise instructed by your provider.
DO NOT lift, push, or pull anything over 10 LBS for 5-6 weeks.
DO NOT engage in activities that will place tension or stress on the incision. Use caution to avoid fast, jerky movements.
You may take short walks as long as you feel comfortable doing so. No power or strenuous walking or exercise. Do not perform usual household duties until instructed by your provider.
Pools and hot tubs should be avoided for 6 weeks.
Continue your prescribed antibiotics as needed and instructed by your provider.
DO NOT apply heating pads to the incisions. If instructed by your provider, use ice packs as needed to help minimize swelling and discomfort.
You may elevate your arms to help minimize swelling.
NO SMOKING for 8 weeks. Avoid being in a room with smokers. Smoking hinders the healing process.
NO NSAIDS, vitamins or herbal supplements for 2 weeks prior and 2 weeks after surgery.
Contact the office immediately if you notice any sudden increase in redness, swelling, excessive bleeding/drainage or pain at the surgical site.
