Eat smaller meals for the first day or two, then return to your usual diet as tolerated.
Call if nausea persists, you are repeatedly vomiting, or your abdomen becomes increasingly swollen or painful.
Incisions and bathing
If your incisions are closed with skin glue and you were cleared to shower, let water run over them and pat dry. Leave the glue in place until it falls off on its own.
Follow any separate instructions for a drain, packing, or dressing. Do not soak in a bath or swim for at least 2 weeks and until the incisions have healed.
Activity and recovery
Walk regularly and build up activity gradually. You may have more energy on some days than others, but your recovery should move forward over time.
After about 2 weeks, gradually resume moderate activity if comfortable and cleared by your team. Continue the lifting restriction.
If antibiotics were prescribed, take them exactly as directed. Do not stop early or use leftover antibiotics.
Medicines, comfort & driving
Take medicines exactly as prescribed. Ask before adding a pain medicine or laxative, especially if you have kidney or liver disease, ulcers, or take a blood thinner.
Some prescription pain medicines already contain acetaminophen (Tylenol). Check labels to avoid taking it twice. Do not mix opioid pain medicines with alcohol or other sedating medicines unless your prescriber has specifically directed you.
Do not drive while taking a medicine that makes you sleepy or slows your reactions. Follow the time restriction from your anesthesia team, and wait until you can move comfortably and brake safely.
Walk regularly within your procedure’s restrictions. Use your prescribed bowel regimen if pain medicine causes constipation. Drink fluids only within any limits set by your medical team.
WHEN TO GET HELP
Know when to call.
Call 911 for an emergency
Chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, or heavy bleeding that will not stop needs emergency help.
Contact the practice promptly
Call for fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher, worsening pain, spreading redness, pus, repeated vomiting, inability to keep liquids down, or difficulty urinating.
Severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen with vomiting, or feeling seriously unwell needs urgent medical evaluation. If you cannot reach your team, go to an emergency department.