Post-Operative Instructions

Dr. Richard Kim's Post-Operative Instructions

1) Position:

  • Keep the operated part of your body elevated above the level of your heart as much as possible, especially at night.

  • Example: If you had hand surgery, sleep on your back with your hand resting on 2-3 pillows by your side. When watching TV or reading, also prop your hand up on 2-3 pillows.

2) Icing:

  • Applying a cool compress or a plastic bag with ice wrapped in a towel over the affected area may help relieve discomfort.

  • Apply for 20 minutes, then wait at least 20 minutes before reapplying.

  • If you have a splint, the cool compress can be placed directly onto it.

3) Dressing:

  • You can reinforce your dressing with tape and gauze as needed.

  • If a soft dressing was applied after surgery, it may be removed after 2 days.

    • A steri-strip may be on top of your sutures. If it stays on, nothing needs to be done.

    • If the steri-strip falls off and your sutures are visible, apply bacitracin or Neosporin and cover with a bandaid or dressing.

  • If a hard splint was applied, keep it on until your first post-operative office visit.

4) Bleeding:

  • Small amounts of oozing and bleeding after surgery are normal.

  • Staining of the dressing is not a cause for concern.

  • If the oozing does not stop and the dressing becomes soaked, call the office for further instructions.

5) Hygiene:

  • You can shower starting the day after surgery.

  • Keep the dressing dry by taping a plastic bag over it or using a cast cover from a pharmacy.

  • If a soft dressing was applied, it may be removed after 2 days, and you may shower without protection—just dry the area afterward.

  • If a hard splint was applied, keep it on and keep it dry while showering until your first post-operative visit.

6) Sutures:

  • Sutures are typically removed 7-14 days after surgery.

7) Medications:

  • Take pain medication or ibuprofen as needed for discomfort.

  • Take antibiotics until finished.

  • Always take medications with food to avoid stomach upset.

8) Exercise:

  • Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for 4 weeks after surgery.

  • Do not drive while taking pain medications.

9) Diet:

  • Eat regular meals and increase fiber intake.

  • Pain medications can cause constipation, so consider taking Metamucil or a stool softener if needed.

  • Do not drink alcohol until you have finished your antibiotics.

  • Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water per day.