For some patients, balancing the benefits and side effects of pain medication is challenging. Patients should notify their surgeon if they have had previous difficulties with pain medication or pain control. After surgery the patient spends an hour or so in the recovery room. A drainage tube is usually used to remove excess fluid from the surgical area. The drain is usually removed on the second day after surgery.
Bandages cover the incision.
They are usually changed the second day after surgery. Discharge is usually on the third or fourth day after surgery. During the hospitalization, the patient learns a simple rehabilitation program that will be used for maintaining the range of motion at home after discharge. On the second day after surgery, the physical therapist teaches the patient gentle range of motion exercises. Walking and use of the arm for gentle activities are encouraged soon after surgery.