Key Pre-Operative Guidelines (Summary)

Fasting: No food or drink (including water, mints, or gum) for 8 hours prior to surgery.

Transportation: A responsible adult must drive you home and remain with you overnight. Rideshare services are not permitted.

Medications: Discontinue aspirin, NSAIDs, and blood-thinning supplements as directed (typically 2–3 weeks prior).

Lifestyle Adjustments: Cease smoking and limit alcohol intake in the weeks leading up to surgery. These steps reduce complications and support healing.

Day of Surgery: Shower the night before or morning of surgery. Do not apply lotions, deodorant, or makeup. Wear loose, front-opening clothing.

Key Post-Operative Guidelines (Summary)

Medications:

• Use Tylenol for pain as needed. Avoid NSAIDs (like ibuprofen, Advil, or Aleve) until the second week after surgery.
• Take narcotic pain medication and anti-nausea medication (Zofran) as prescribed.
• Complete your full course of antibiotics.
• Use stool softeners or laxatives to prevent constipation.

Hydration & Nutrition:

• Drink at least 8–10 glasses of water daily.
• Limit caffeine and avoid alcohol.
• Eat small, light meals if your appetite is low.

Mobility & Positioning:

• When getting out of bed, roll to your side and push up with your arm to avoid abdominal strain.
• Sleep with your knees slightly bent and head elevated to reduce tension on your incision.
• Change positions every 2 hours to reduce clot risk.
• You may need to walk slightly hunched for 1–3 weeks.
• Avoid lifting over 5 lbs for 4–6 weeks.

Exercise:

• Avoid all strenuous exercise and abdominal strain for 6–8 weeks.
• Resume light activity only when cleared by your surgeon.

Showering & Bathing:

• You may shower 24 hours after surgery, avoiding direct contact with incisions.
• Do not soak in baths, hot tubs, or pools until your surgeon confirms it is safe.

Sun Protection:

• Keep your incision covered and protected from the sun for at least 12 months. Use sunscreen when needed.