To help with your recovery
Your post-operation care will focus on:
- early ability to move around
- pain management
- things to watch out for, including your specific abilities and limitations.
It is important you follow our instructions to help you recover.
What not to do
In the 24 hours after surgery, you must not:
- smoke
- drink alcohol
- drive a car or motorbike
- care for another person
- care for young children on your own within 24 hours after your anaesthetic
- perform heavy lifting (in some cases)
- use machinery
- play sports
- make major decisions or sign legal forms.
You must have an adult carer with you for the 24 hours after your anaesthetic.
Once home, you must follow the written advice you receive from the hospital.
Your doctor or nurse will let you know how much time you will need off work. We can also arrange a medical certificate for you to give to your employer.
Things to watch out for and who to contact
Your nurse will advise you of things to watch out for.
You are encouraged to raise any questions or concerns with the ward from which you are discharged, at any time after your surgery. We will give you the number to contact.
We also advise you see your general practitioner for support or contact the Emergency Department for urgent matters.
If you experience any of the following, please contact the Day Surgery Unit on 03 8458 4099 or the Emergency Department on 03 8458 4000:
- unrelieved or excessive pain
- persistent or heavy bleeding
- offensive discharge
- fever symptoms above 38 degrees.
Resources and links
Day Surgery Unit
Monday-Friday 6:30am-8pm.
For after hours or urgent care, please call the Emergency Department on 03 8458 4000.
Last reviewed September 28, 2017.