Guidelines for a Good Recovery: What to expect afterward?
Dont overdo it.
Although you might want to resume your regular activites and full schedule, you need to take time to heal. Returning to work & your daily activites too quickly can slow down your healing or even permanently damage the results by opening the incision or increaseing the swelling. Healing takes time; the time you invest in healing you will reap in better results.
If possible, rest for two weeks before returning to work unless it is very "minor" surgery. If you must return sooner, keep your stress level low and remember, no heavy lifting (5 pounds or more).
Slow down.
Although you may be tempted to push yourself, you need to be patient and abide by the activity restrictions set forth by Dr. Olding & his staff. You must not do any strenuous exercise for 10 days follwing surgery (that includes sex). You can take leisurely walks (slow enough that you do not break into a sweat) within a few days after surgery for most surgeries.
Putting on the Brakes.
You can drive about one week after surgery (but this may be much longer for some surgeries) as long as you are completely off of narcotic pain medication and feel as if you can react normally in case of an emergency. Be aware that your movements may be more restricted making it more difficult, even painful to drive.
