WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER SURGERY

Pain management is the primary concern for many patients having surgery.  Dr. Shumway encourages patients to ask for or take pain medication before the pain becomes unbearable, and should be able to rate their discomfort on a pain scale.

• PAIN & PAIN MANAGEMENT – Before your procedure, Dr. Shumway or a member of his staff will discuss which pain medication you will use following your surgery.  There are alternative methods of pain control that you may find helpful as well, such as, distraction, imagery, positioning, mindfulness meditation, and music therapy.
• SURGERY SITE CARE– You may not be able to actually see the site of the incision the first 24 hours following your surgery as it will be bandaged, only to be removed by Dr. Shumway during your first post-op follow up visit.  There are some instances where you will be required to remove the bandage for cleaning or inspection of the incision. Before you leave the office following your surgery, the Nurse will give you care instructions for your particular procedure including what you need to do regarding the incision site.