Recovering After Surgery
The work you put into recovery after your procedure is just as important as the surgery itself. Dr. Cooper and his team are committed to supporting you through every stage of the recovery process, from your first post-operative visit through your return to full activity.
Immediately After Surgery
After your procedure, you will recover in a post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) where nursing staff will monitor your vital signs, pain level, and initial mobility. Most of Dr. Cooper's procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, and you will be discharged home the same day or the following morning. You must have a responsible adult available to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours.
Pain Management
Some pain and swelling after surgery is expected and normal. Dr. Cooper's team will provide a multi-modal pain management plan that typically includes scheduled non-narcotic medications (acetaminophen, anti-inflammatories), ice application, elevation of the operative extremity, and short-term narcotic pain medication when necessary. Using pain medication responsibly — taking the minimum effective dose and transitioning off narcotics as quickly as possible — supports both your recovery and your overall health.
Wound Care
Keep your incision clean and dry according to the specific instructions provided. In most cases, you will have a waterproof dressing that allows showering after 24 to 48 hours; however, you should avoid submerging the incision in a bath, pool, or hot tub until cleared by Dr. Cooper. Watch for signs of infection — increasing redness, warmth, swelling, drainage, or fever above 101.5°F — and contact our office immediately if any develop.
Physical Therapy
Rehabilitation is essential to achieving the best possible outcome from your surgery. Dr. Cooper will prescribe a structured physical therapy program beginning at the appropriate time based on your procedure. Attending all scheduled therapy sessions and performing your home exercise program consistently are among the most important things you can do to optimize your recovery.
Follow-Up Visits
You will have a post-operative appointment with Dr. Cooper within one to two weeks of your surgery for wound check and early assessment. Subsequent visits are scheduled at regular intervals to monitor your healing, review imaging when appropriate, and progress your rehabilitation protocol. Please keep all scheduled appointments and contact our office with any concerns between visits.
Activity Restrictions
Specific activity restrictions — including weight-bearing status, immobilization requirements, and return-to-sport timelines — vary based on your procedure and individual healing. Follow Dr. Cooper's instructions carefully. Returning to activities before your tissues are adequately healed risks re-injury and can compromise your surgical outcome.
