Top Tips for a Smooth Recovery After Day Surgery

Pittwater Day Surgery | Northern Beaches, NSW

Day surgery offers convenience and a faster return home, but recovery still plays a crucial role in your overall outcome. At Pittwater Day Surgery, we want every patient to feel confident and supported as they recover.

Here are our top recovery tips to ensure a safe, smooth, and stress-free healing process.

1. Follow Your Discharge Instructions

Before you leave our day surgery centre, you’ll receive detailed post-operative instructions. These cover wound care, medications, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments. Make sure you or your support person reads these carefully. If anything is unclear, our team is just a phone call away.

2. Have Someone Stay With You for 24 Hours

Anaesthesia can affect your coordination, judgement, and memory for up to a full day. Arrange for a trusted adult to stay with you overnight to assist with meals or mobility, monitor your condition, and help if needed.

3. Prioritise Rest

You may feel well, but your body still needs time to recover. For at least the first 24 to 48 hours, avoid driving, heavy lifting, or any strenuous activity. Create a calm, comfortable space at home where you can rest without interruption.

4. Take Pain Relief as Prescribed

Pain or discomfort after surgery is normal and can usually be managed effectively. Take your medication on time, exactly as prescribed, and with food or water if advised. You may also use ice packs or elevate the affected area (if appropriate) to help reduce swelling and soreness.

5. Know When to Call Us

Complications are rare, but it’s important to know when to seek medical attention. Contact us or your GP if you experience excessive bleeding, fever or chills, increased redness, swelling or discharge at the surgical site, difficulty breathing, or severe or worsening pain.

6. Start with Light Meals and Fluids

After surgery, drink plenty of water and start with light, easy-to-digest foods such as toast, soup, or rice. Avoid alcohol. Your appetite may be reduced, and your stomach may feel unsettled after anaesthesia.

7. Don’t Skip Follow-Up Appointments

Even if you feel fine, follow-up visits are essential to check your healing progress, remove sutures or dressings if needed, and address any concerns you may have.

8. Reach Out With Any Questions

If something doesn’t feel right or you’re unsure about your recovery, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Final Thoughts

Most patients recover quickly after day surgery, especially with the right care and support. By following these steps, you’re giving your body the best chance to heal well and get back to your usual activities.