What Are Normal Symptoms After Surgery?
Normal Symptoms
- Pain
- Bruising along the entire arm
- Difficulties sleeping
Abnormal Symptoms
- Persistent fever or chills
- Persistent drainage
- Extreme calf pain
What Are My Restrictions After Surgery
Driving
Your arm will be placed in a kahuna shoulder brace after your surgery. You will not be permitted to drive for at least two weeks after surgery, or while taking narcotic pain medication.
Swimming
4-6 weeks after your incision has fully healed.
Return to work or sports:
Patients that have sedentary or seated jobs can return back as soon as pain is managed. Return to sports activity or jobs that require heavy listing may begin around the 3-4 month mark.
Full Recovery:
6-12 months.
Post-Surgical Wound Care
The preferred wound closure system is the Dermabond Prineo skin closure tape. With this system you will have sutures underneath the skin which will absorb with time. On top of these sutures, a clear piece of tape is placed. This tape creates a barrier between the incision and outside bacteria. Use of this tape allows you to begin showering normally within 24 hours of your procedure. You are not able to soak the area in a body of water. Additionally, you have no wound care with this system. You may remove the outer dressings 24 hours after surgery but should not have to perform dressing changes or clean the incision with special solutions. The tape will stay in place for about 14 days.
