What happens after surgery?

After your procedure, you will be moved to a recovery area where you will be cared for until you are awake and comfortable. Once you are settled in the recovery room, your family member and/or friend may stay with you until you are discharged. Remember you WILL NOT be allowed to drive yourself home if you have been sedated. Please have a family member or friend drive you home. Taxis are NOT allowed unless a friend or family member rides with you.

What happens when I return home?

Once home, you may experience one or more common side effects of surgery and anesthesia. These include drowsiness, muscle aches, a sore throat, headaches or dizziness. Ask your doctor about specific side effects you may experience and how long you should expect them to continue. Call your doctor immediately if any of these side effects persists for longer than anticipated or is unusually severe.

A nurse from the surgery center will call you within a day or two after your surgery to check on your recovery. If you would like to discuss any concerns before this check-up call, call the number on the back cover of this brochure to speak with a member of the nursing staff.

After the procedure, call your doctor immediately if:

• You have questions about what you can and cannot do, when you can return to work, how active you can be, or any other issues related to the recovery process.

• You experience any health changes or have any concerns about your recovery.