Activity and Exercise
You will likely walk with a slight hunch for a period after your surgery. This is normal. In the meantime, try to walk as upright as you can.
Rest for a couple of weeks. Then begin to increase your activity as tolerated. Slow walking on a treadmill is encouraged. Do not lift anything heavier than ten pounds for six weeks. Avoid swimming pools, saunas, hot tubs, and open bodies of water for two months.
Driving
You cannot drive as long as you are taking prescription pain medication.
After that, make sure you can sit comfortably behind the wheel and can make all movements required for safe driving.
Sleep and Rest
Your surgeon will tell you how to find your best resting position. You may need to sleep on an incline for your first few days at home.
Keeping your upper body slightly raised with your knees bent somewhat can help reduce swelling. Putting pillows underneath your knees may help take pressure off your abdomen.
Getting out of bed can be tricky. Be careful not to stretch your lower abdominal skin. First, roll onto your side, maintaining some flexion in your hips. Next, use your hand to push yourself into a seated position, then rock forward and use your legs to help you stand.
Garments/Binders
It is vitally important that you wear your post-surgical support garment/binder at all times for 4-6 weeks, except when showering.
Compression garments are a must for optimal recovery. If you don’t wear your garment as directed, you risk splitting sutures, increased swelling and bruising, and possible hematoma formation.
