The first 2-3 days are rough. You will feel bloated, distended and sore. It is imperative that you take ibuprofen and acetaminophen every 6 hours (alternating the two, so you are taking something every 3 hours — per your post-operative instructions) for the first 72 hours after surgery. After the first 72 hours, you can start cutting back the dosage and/or frequency of the medication and take it as needed, but most will still continue the regimen for the first 5-7 days.
Many patients benefit from setting their alarm to not miss a dose. Once you pass gas out the bottom, you will start feeling better. Once you have your first bowel movement after surgery, you will feel even better! The most important thing is to not get constipated after surgery. You will be instructed to take a stool softener and magnesium to help keep your stools soft and your bowels awake. Many times, additional medication may be needed to further “wake up” your bowels.
However, the best thing you can do to expedite your recovery is to walk around. This helps your body absorb the gas and helps “wake up” your body.
By the end of the first week, most patients report feeling about 60% back to normal. By the end of the second week, most patients report feeling 70% back to normal.
The only physical restriction that you have after surgery is that you should not lift anything heavier than 10 pounds until 4-6 weeks after surgery.