When can I take a bath or shower?
There will be a clean cover dressing in the wound, which will be changed by appointment from time to time. You are welcome to wash the rest of the body, but keep the dressings completely dry for the first 48 hours. Avoid bathing or swimming until the stitches are removed, soaking the wound increases the likelihood of infection. Do not allow water to be directed onto the wound while showering during this period. You can shower for 1 week after surgery, but the wound must be carefully dried afterwards.
Exercise:
You will feel more tired in the few weeks after surgery, it is recommended to gradually resume your daily activity. For the first 6-8 weeks, avoid heavy physical work, lifting weights and intense sports activities.
Work:
Most people can return to work within 1-2 weeks.
Please avoid the immediate post-operative period:
- 10-15 days of strenuous exercise (e.g. running, aerobics).
- Gradually increase your physical exertion at a pace that you feel you can manage
- After 7 days, light running is usually not a problem, especially if you have been running regularly
- do not walk up stairs for 24-36 hours (or longer if you feel up to it)