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Post-Op Instructions

Post-operative instructions, procedure by procedure.

Find your procedure below to read Dr. Lee's recovery instructions: what to expect, how to care for your surgical site, and when to call the office. Please always follow the specific instructions you were given after your own surgery.

What to expect after surgery

The goal after surgery is to keep your pain well controlled and keep your surgical site protected.

Dr. Lee typically calls in the evening after your surgery to review the procedure and answer any questions. If you miss his call, call the office at (212) 737-3301. If it is after office hours, call the same line and page Dr. Lee.

Elevation

If advised by Dr. Lee for your specific procedure, elevation is an efficient way to decrease swelling and pain.

Pain medication

People vary in how much and how often they need to take pain medication. Some never end up needing to take medication, while others end up needing the full amount prescribed to them. The first few days after surgery is usually when pain is the worst. It is very important that you only take the pain medication prescribed to you as directed.

Nerve block

You may have received a nerve block with your surgery. If so, your extremity may stay numb for up to 24 hours. Increased sensation (usually accompanied by pins/needles sensation) and movement of your affected extremity are signs that the block is wearing off. You may also experience pain and discomfort of the extremity as the nerve block wears off.

Safety

Avoid large crowds and use extra precautions to avoid falls. Follow your specific post-op instructions carefully regarding braces, splints, bandages, immobilization, wound care, and weight bearing status.

Call the office immediately for
  • Severe pain, especially that which is not reduced with pain medication
  • Fever (>101.3°F) or chills
  • Oozing or redness of the wound
  • Pain, swelling, redness, or hardness of the calf (behind the leg between the knee and ankle)
Call 911 or go to the ER for
  • Difficulty breathing or heaviness/pain in the chest

Follow-up appointment. Typically, your first post-operative appointment should be scheduled for 7 to 10 days after your surgery. This may vary, so please check your specific paperwork for details.

Procedure-specific instructions

Find your procedure for detailed recovery instructions.

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Foot & Ankle

02 procedures
Please note

These instructions are general guidance and do not replace the specific instructions you were given after your own surgery. Recovery varies from patient to patient. If your instructions differ from what you read here, follow the instructions from your surgery, and contact the office with any questions.

Questions about your recovery

Talk through your recovery plan.

For questions specific to your procedure and recovery, book a visit or contact the office. Always follow the instructions given to you after your own surgery.

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