Post-surgery FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
This packet is designed to go through some common questions before and after surgery to hopefully make your surgical experience as smooth as possible. We understand how much information is given at your appointment and while going through the scheduling process that it is super easy not to remember all of it, if there are questions that you think of that are not on this list please reach out to our office at (210) 878-4116, email Lynch.sports.shoulder@gmail.com, or text our patient phone (210) 350-0767.
Postoperative FAQ
- Can I take Motrin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, Mobic, etc.?
Please reference your postoperative instructions to see if an anti-inflammatory was prescribed for you. If it was not please do not start taking any without talking to our office first! If you have received platelet rich plasma, you should not take NSAIDs x 2weeks postoperatively.
- How often should I ice and for how long?
Ice helps tremendously postoperatively. If you got an ice machine, protect the skin and use it consistently. Regularly check to ensure the bandages are not getting wet and the skin is protected. If you are using ice packs, around the clock intermittent icing with ice packs for the first couple of weeks is recommended. You can ice for 20-30 minutes on 20-30 minutes off.
- How often do I wear the sling?
For the first two weeks you will wear the sling all the time, except to do the exercises that are on your postoperative instructions or that were given to you by Dr. Lynch and to take a shower. If you did not receive these or have additional questions, please reach out to our office.
- How often do I wear the brace?
You should wear the brace all the time, except when doing the exercises, you were given and to shower, and/or for a continuous passive motion machine, if recommended. If you did not receive exercises or have additional questions, please reach out to our office.
- What exercises should I do?
Please look at your post op instructions to see what exercises Dr. Lynch. If you are unsure of what these are, please reach out to our office.
- When will I start physical therapy?
The start of physical therapy can range from 1 week to 6 weeks post operatively just depending on what procedure you had done. Our office will let you know when this will begin if it is to start before we see you.
- When is my postoperative appointment?
Your postoperative appointment will be 1-2 weeks after surgery. Check out your post-operative instructions to see the date of your appointment or call our office if you are unsure.
- When can I shower?
Check out your postoperative instructions to verify, but generally you can shoulder 3 days postoperatively.
- When can I get in a hot tub or pool?
You cannot submerge your incisions until they are fully healed and directed by Dr. Lynch.
- Do I put the bandage back on?
Unless otherwise specified, you do not need to replace the bulky bandages. Please use the ace wrap on legs to help reduce swelling.
- What can I wear after surgery?
Please feel free to wear whatever is comfortable for you. Anything you can put on and still wear your sling/brace.
- When will I get my stitches removed?
Most sutures are dissolvable but if you do not have dissolvable stitches those will be removed 1-3 weeks after surgery at a postoperative appointment.
- What do I take for pain?
Please look at your postoperative instructions to see what Dr. Lynch has prescribed and for information on when and how to take responsibly and do NOT forget about mediation and prayer for pain management as well.
- When can I drive?
You should not drive until we see you at your postoperative appointment.
- When can I go back to work?
Depending on what you do for work will dictate your restrictions. For specifics on this please be sure to contact our office for more details.
- I am getting irritation from the sling/brace, what do I do?
If you notice you are getting, what may seem to be a heat rash, try placing a towel or wear a sleeve in between the brace/sling and your body.
- I think I have a rash at my incision site, what do I do?
Please contact us immediately if you notice irritation or itching at or around your incision sites so we can evaluate this immediately.
- How do I get dressed?
Please be cautious when getting dressed. The first couple of times be make sure you have someone available to assist you in case you need additional help. Always start with the operative body part first and then place the non-operative body part second (I.e- place your operative leg in the pants first and then place your non operative leg in the pants, same for shoulders, however when removing always remove the operative side 1st)
- What are my restrictions?
Restrictions vary on a case-by-case basis. If you are unclear about this, please contact our office ASAP to obtain clarification.
- My brace/sling feels loose, who can help?
Please contact our office ASAP and we will get you in touch with the brace tech who fit you preoperatively.
- The ice machine is not working properly, who do I contact?
Please contact Matrix, Alex is the rep for the ice machines and his contact number is (210) 896-7804.
