Recovering from surgery can be a journey—sometimes smooth, sometimes a little bumpy.
Whether your procedure was minor or major, the way you care for yourself post-surgery can make a significant difference in how quickly and successfully you heal.
To help you navigate this important time, here’s a practical guide on the key do’s and don’ts of post-surgery recovery.
The Do’s
- Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions – It might sound obvious, but it’s one of the most critical steps. Your surgeon or care team will provide detailed guidance on wound care, medications, activity limits, and follow-up appointments. Follow these instructions to the letter—even if you start to feel better quickly. Get all the instructions from your surgeon in writing as it’s easy to forget information in a post-op environment.
- Rest and Take It Slow – Your body needs time to heal. Prioritise rest and avoid overexerting yourself, especially in the early days. This isn’t the time to “power through”—it’s the time to let your body recover.
- Keep the Wound Clean and Dry – Infection is a common post-surgery complication. Keep your incision site clean, dry, and covered (if advised), and watch for signs of redness, swelling, or discharge. Contact your doctor if anything looks or feels off.
- Eat Nutritious Foods & Hydrate – Fuel your recovery with foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein. Proper nutrition supports tissue repair, boosts energy, and helps your immune system fend off infection. Hydration is equally important, so keep the water coming.
- Ask for Help – Don’t try to be a hero—accept assistance from family, friends, or caregivers. Whether it’s help with cooking, transportation, or just moral support, having help can ease stress and speed your recovery.
- Consider Rehabilitation with Physiotherapy – Physiotherapy can play a vital role in your post-surgery recovery—especially after orthopedic procedures, joint replacements, or any surgery that affects movement. A physiotherapist can guide you through tailored exercises that help restore mobility, build strength, improve circulation, and reduce stiffness or scar tissue formation. Starting physiotherapy at the right time, as advised by your healthcare provider, can greatly enhance your recovery outcomes and help you return to your normal activities more safely and confidently.
The Don’ts
- Don’t Ignore Pain or Discomfort – Mild discomfort is expected, but if your pain becomes intense or unusual, don’t shrug it off. It could be a sign of complications. Keep your healthcare provider in the loop about any changes.
- Don’t Resume Normal Activities Too Soon – Even if you’re feeling better, your body is still healing. Returning to work, exercise, or household chores prematurely can lead to setbacks or even re-injury. Gradually reintroduce activities as approved by your doctor.
- Don’t Skip Medication or Adjust the Dosage Yourself – Always take your medications exactly as prescribed. Skipping doses or changing dosages without consulting your doctor can delay healing—or worse, cause complications.
- Don’t Smoke or Drink Alcohol – Both smoking and drinking can impair the healing process. Nicotine restricts blood flow, and alcohol can interfere with medications and weaken your immune system. Avoid them until your doctor gives you the green light.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions – If something doesn’t make sense or you’re unsure about what to do, speak up. There are no silly questions when it comes to your health and recovery.
Giving your Body the Best Chance to a Full Recovery
Post-surgery recovery isn’t just about healing a wound—it’s about giving your body the care and patience it needs to bounce back stronger. By following these do’s and don’ts, you set yourself up for a smoother, faster, and safer recovery.
Remember, every surgery and every body is different, so stay connected with your healthcare providers and listen to what your body is telling you.
Take it slow and be patient. You’ve got this!
Note: The information in this article is a general guide only. As mentioned above, please speak to your surgeon initially to follow their specific recovery instructions.
Post Surgery Rehabilitation at Sandgate Physical Health Clinic
At Sandgate Physical Health Clinic, we have many experienced therapists that will work with your surgeon, to assist with your recovery and rehabilitation post-surgery.
We offer Physiotherapy, including Hydrotherapy, Massage Therapy, Acupuncture and Pilates, from Monday to Saturday at our Sandgate clinic. Please contact us on 07 3869 1099 or BOOK AN APPOINTMENT ONLINE