If it doesn't seem to help, let the doctor know, but keep taking it until told otherwise. If you've been prescribed antibiotics, be sure to use them up, even if you're feeling better. If a medicine makes you drowsy, avoid driving or using dangerous machinery. You may use heat for pain or swelling. Do not sleep on the heating pad or hot water bottle.
Heat brings blood to the area of the operation and helps it heal faster.
When you are allowed to bathe or shower, carefully wash the stitches or staples with soap and water. Then put on a clean, new bandage. Change the bandage any time it gets wet or dirty. To keep your lungs free of infection, continue your deep breathing exercises. You may also be asked to keep on using an incentive spirometer.