Surgeries are never fun, but they are sometimes necessary. Whether you’re having surgery to correct a health issue or for cosmetic reasons, knowing what to expect before and after the procedure is essential. Here, we will discuss seven common surgeries and how to recover from each one. We’ll also provide some tips on how to make the recovery process as smooth as possible.
Broken Bone Repair
If you have a broken bone, your surgeon will first set the bone and then insert metal rods, pins, or screws to hold the bone in place as it heals. Recovery from this type of surgery can take several weeks or longer, depending on the severity of the break. You’ll likely need to wear a cast or splint for six to eight weeks, and you may need physical therapy to regain full use of the affected limb. Make sure you take your doctor’s advice when recovering from a broken bone. You don’t want to put too much strain on the affected limb while it’s still healing. Avoid any strenuous activity for a couple of months.
Arthroscopic Surgery
Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat various conditions of the joints, such as arthritis. During the procedure, your surgeon will make small incisions and insert a thin camera into the joint. Using this camera, your surgeon can see inside the joint and repair any damage. Even though this isn’t an invasive procedure, you will want to take time to recover. Plan on the recovery process taking about 6 weeks. Don’t strain yourself too hard during this time.
Spinal Surgery
Spinal surgery is typically performed to correct spinal stenosis, which is narrowing the spine’s spaces. This can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain. Spinal surgery involves widening these spaces to relieve pressure and improve symptoms. It can take up to a year to recover from spinal surgery. Make sure you are careful during this time and take the advice of your doctor.
Heart Surgery
Heart surgery is usually performed to repair damage to the heart or to replace a damaged valve. The most common type of heart surgery is coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), which improves blood flow to the heart. A specialized team who are familiar with different types of heart surgery should perform this procedure.
Brain Surgery
Brain surgery is usually performed to remove a brain tumor or to treat a condition such as epilepsy. The type of brain surgery you have will depend on the location and size of the problem. Recovery from brain surgery can take several weeks or months, and you may need physical, occupational, and speech therapy to regain full function.
Gallbladder Removal
Gallbladder surgery is typically performed to remove gallstones from the gallbladder. The surgery is usually done laparoscopically, which is a minimally invasive procedure. Recovery from this type of surgery is typically quick, and most people can return to their normal activities within a week or two.
Jaw Surgery
Many people need jaw surgery during their lifetime. Surgery is necessary for a jaw that is out of place. If your jaw isn’t aligned it can cause dental issues and pain. If you need this type of surgery, a center like Lighthouse Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery can help. Complete healing of your jaw can take up to 12 weeks, so be sure to take it easy during that time.
Making a smooth recovery from surgery requires following your surgeon’s instructions and taking good care of yourself. Get plenty of rest, eat a healthy diet, and avoid strenuous activity until your surgeon gives you the green light.
