Depending on the type of surgery you undergo, your recovery time could last months or even over a year. Regardless of the procedure, aftercare is essential to keeping you fit, healthy, and able to resume your everyday life.
Below, we’ll discuss the most important aspects of self-care and where to start after you’re discharged from the hospital.
Prioritise Rest & Recovery
Your body will need time to heal, whether from a minor procedure like a vasectomy or a major surgery like a total knee replacement, so don’t rush back into your normal routine. Aim to gradually increase your activity levels as you recover, but avoid strenuous exercise.
Don’t underestimate sleep’s importance in recovery. During sleep, the body releases growth hormones required for repairing damaged tissues and healing wounds from surgery. Sleep also helps reduce pain perception and improve immune function, vital for fighting infections.
If you’re finding it challenging to fall or stay asleep because of stress and anxiety, try activating the relaxation response to drift off naturally. You can practice this through diaphragmatic breathing, 4-7-8 breathing, yoga nidra, Progressive muscle relaxation, non-sleep deep rest (NSDR), and many other techniques.
Follow Post-Surgery Aftercare Instructions
After surgery, your doctors will prescribe you medication and give you advice on how to approach your recovery. Ensure you take these prescribed medications as directed, especially painkillers and antibiotics, to reduce the risk of complications and the need to be readmitted to the hospital. Stick to any follow-up appointments your doctor books, and don’t avoid requesting one yourself.
Keeping your surgical wounds clean and dry, with fresh bandages, will also help prevent infection. Remember that your doctors are also responsible for your aftercare, and if something goes wrong, consider speaking to medical negligence solicitors to see if you can receive compensation.
Nourish Your Body with Proper Nutrition
Eating a balanced diet rich in fibre, proteins, and vitamins can speed up post-surgery healing and help you avoid complications. Protein makes new blood cells, which are essential for wound healing, and helps repair tissues. Opt for lean protein sources like chicken, beans, nuts, and tofu.
Fibre improves digestion and can prevent constipation, a common problem after surgery, so eat plenty of fruit and vegetables. Leafy greens are also high in antioxidants your cells need.
You should also keep hydrated to prevent dehydration and help your body flush out toxins. Avoid alcohol and smoking – they are more likely to slow down your recovery.
Be Patient with Your Healing Process
Recovery takes time. Avoid excessively comparing your progress to others because you may have very different circumstances. Your age and pre-existing conditions will affect how quickly and smoothly your wounds heal. Instead, focus on your progress and follow the aftercare plan laid out by your doctors.
Focusing on your progress will allow you to celebrate small victories rather than focusing on setbacks. If you follow someone else’s recovery on social media, keep in mind that people often present an idealised version of their lives that may not fully reflect reality.
People often overlook the emotional aspects of recovery and the mental toll it takes. Don’t hesitate to call mental health professionals for support if you’re struggling.
Practice Self-Compassion & Mental Well-being
Don’t be too hard on yourself after your surgery. Recovery is physical and emotional, often lasting beyond when your wounds and bruises heal. Self-care doesn’t need to involve an elaborate spa getaway; you can practice mindfulness around the house or download a meditation app for some breathing techniques.
Junk journaling is a creative activity you can do with old books, newspapers, and receipts you have lying around. It offers an unusual way of documenting your thoughts and feelings as you heal.
