Post-Operative Care & Recovery

Your recovery is just as important as your surgery. Below are answers to common questions and guidance to help you heal safely and confidently.If something doesn’t feel right — call us. We would rather answer a simple question than miss a preventable problem.

The “Big 3” Surgical Complications to Watch For

We educate every patient on these because early action prevents serious issues.

Surgical Site Infection (SSI)

An infection can occur at the incision or deeper in the joint.

Normal findings:

  • Mild redness at the edges of the incision

  • Small amount of clear or slightly pink drainage

  • Mild swelling and warmth

  • Low-grade temperature under 100.5°F

Call us immediately if you notice:

  • Increasing redness spreading outward

  • Thick yellow/green drainage

  • Foul odor from incision

  • Fever over 101°F

  • Worsening pain after initially improving

  • Incision opening

Early treatment prevents major complications.

Pneumonia

After anesthesia and decreased activity, your lungs don’t expand as well. That can lead to pneumonia.

Prevention:

  • Get up and walk as instructed

  • Take deep breaths and cough regularly

Call us if you have:

  • Shortness of breath

  • Chest pain with breathing

  • Persistent cough

  • Fever with respiratory symptoms

Movement and deep breathing are medicine.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

A blood clot can form in the leg after surgery due to reduced mobility.

Prevention:

  • Walk frequently (every 1–2 hours while awake)

  • Perform ankle pumps regularly

  • Take your prescribed blood thinner if ordered

  • Stay hydrated

Call us immediately or go to the ER if you have:

  • New calf swelling (one-sided)

  • Calf pain or tightness

  • Warmth or redness in one leg

  • Sudden chest pain or shortness of breath (this may indicate a pulmonary embolism — call 911)

Clots are preventable. Movement is critical.

When To Call Your Surgeon

Call your surgeon’s office if you experience:

  • Fever over 101°F

  • Uncontrolled pain

  • Persistent nausea or vomiting

  • Increasing swelling not relieved by elevation

  • New numbness or weakness

  • Drainage soaking through your dressing

  • Any concern that feels abnormal

We would rather you call early than wait too long.

Call 911 or go to the ER immediately if you have:

  • Chest pain

  • Sudden shortness of breath

  • Signs of stroke

Showering & Bathing

Unless instructed otherwise:

  • You may shower 24-48 hours after surgery. Refer to your specific discharge instructions.

  • Keep your dressing clean and dry.

  • If you have a waterproof dressing, you may shower normally but do not scrub the incision.

  • Pat dry gently — do not rub.

  • Do NOT soak in a tub, hot tub, or pool until cleared (usually 4–6 weeks).

Submerging the incision too early increases infection risk.

Pain Control— What To Expect

Pain after surgery is normal. Our goal is manageable pain that allows you to move and recover, not zero pain.

What Is Multimodal Pain Control?

Your surgeon may use multiple medications that work in different ways to control pain. This allows lower doses of narcotics and better overall relief.

Your plan may include:

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

  • An anti-inflammatory (ibuprofen, meloxicam, celecoxib)

  • A nerve medication (gabapentin or similar)

  • A muscle relaxer

  • A limited narcotic prescription for breakthrough pain

Each medication targets a different pain pathway

Why You Should Take Most Medications on a Schedule

Medications like acetaminophen, anti-inflammatories, and nerve medications work best when taken routinely for the first several days.

They reduce inflammation and nerve sensitivity before pain spikes.

Narcotics should be used:

  • Only as needed

  • For breakthrough pain

  • For the shortest time possible

Staying ahead of pain is easier than chasing it.

Suporting Your Recovery

Your recovery doesn’t stop when you leave the surgery center. These simple habits help reduce complications, control pain, and speed healing.

Swelling is normal after surgery and may increase during the first few days.

To reduce swelling:

  • Elevate the surgical limb above heart level when resting

  • Use ice packs for 20 minutes on / 20 minutes off

  • Perform ankle pumps or gentle movement as instructed

  • Wear compression devices if recommended by your provider

Controlling swelling helps reduce pain and stiffness.

Swelling Control & Elevation

Pain medication and reduced activity can slow digestion.

To prevent constipation:

  • Drink plenty of water

  • Take stool softeners if prescribed

  • Eat fiber-rich foods

  • Walk regularly

Addressing constipation early makes recovery much more comfortable.

Constipation Prevention

Movement is one of the most important parts of recovery.

Unless your surgeon instructs otherwise:

  • Walk several times throughout the day

  • Avoid sitting or lying down for long periods

  • Perform your prescribed exercises

  • Follow any weight-bearing restrictions carefully

Regular movement improves circulation and helps prevent blood clots.

Activity & Movement

Your body needs proper nutrition to repair tissue and regain strength.

Focus on:

  • Protein with every meal

  • Fruits and vegetables

  • Adequate hydration

  • Limiting alcohol and excessive sugar

Protein plays a key role in wound healing and muscle recovery.

Nutrition For Healing