Recovering from Surgery: What You Need to Know

One of the most common questions I hear from patients is not about the surgery itself. It's about what happens afterward.

When can I get back to work? When can I drive? When can I pick up my grandchild? When will I feel like myself again?

Every patient and every procedure is different, but here are answers to some of the questions I hear most often about recovering from surgery.

How long does recovery take?

The answer depends on the procedure and on you as an individual.

Many patients are surprised to learn that different parts of the body heal at different rates. For example, after intestinal surgery, the connection inside the bowel may heal very quickly. The muscles and tissues of the abdominal wall often take much longer.

Most patients begin feeling better within a few weeks, but complete healing can take months.

I often compare recovery to pouring a new concrete driveway. You can walk on it fairly soon, but it takes much longer before it's fully cured and ready for everything life throws at it.

What can I do to recover faster?

One of the best things you can do is prepare before surgery. Depending on your condition, simple things like walking daily, improving your diet and staying active can help your body recover more efficiently afterward.
After surgery, follow your care team's instructions carefully. Getting up and moving when it's safe, staying hydrated and following dietary recommendations can all support recovery.

Is pain normal?

Yes. Some discomfort is expected after surgery.

The goal is not necessarily to eliminate every bit of pain but to keep you comfortable enough to rest, move around and heal.

Today we have more options than ever for managing pain. In many cases, we use multiple approaches, including long-acting medications and non-opioid pain relievers, to reduce the need for opioid medications.
If your pain becomes severe, suddenly worsens or feels different than expected, contact your surgeon.

What warning signs should I watch for?

Most recoveries go smoothly, but it's important to know when something may need attention.

Contact your care team if you experience:

• A high fever
• Significant bleeding
• Severe or worsening pain
• New symptoms that concern you
• Any change that feels dramatically different from what you were told to expect

Trust your instincts. Patients are often very good at recognizing when something doesn't feel right.

When can I go back to normal activities?

This may be the question I hear most often. Everyone wants to get back to work, family responsibilities, hobbies and everyday life. That's understandable.

The timeline depends on your operation, but the biggest mistake I see is people doing too much too soon. Even when you're feeling better, your body may still be healing beneath the surface.

Your surgeon's restrictions are there for a reason. Following them can prevent setbacks and help ensure the best possible outcome.

Remember: Recovery is a team effort

Surgery is only one part of the journey. Your care team, your family, your friends and most importantly, you all play important roles in recovery. 

Be patient with yourself. Ask questions. Follow your plan. Give your body the time it needs to heal.
Our goal isn't simply to help you get through surgery. It's to help you get back to living your life.