Recovery and Pain Management

Surgery involves discomfort. Patients who are prepared for that cope better than patients who aren't.

For most procedures, the sensation in the first few days is less sharp pain and more a combination of tightness, soreness and heaviness. The area feels operated on. That's different from the kind of pain that signals something is wrong. (Aftercare is an important part of the full process I offer my patients – if you’re worried about any post-surgery pain, get in touch.)

I take a proactive and tailored approach to pain control, designed to keep you comfortable from the outset.

You will be provided with a carefully considered prescription plan, typically including:

• simple, effective analgesia 
• anti-inflammatory medication where appropriate
• short-term stronger medication if required

In the first 48 hours, I recommend:

• taking medication regularly as advised, rather than waiting for discomfort to escalate
• prioritising rest while maintaining gentle, guided movement
• avoiding unnecessary strain on the body

Staying ahead of pain allows for a smoother, more controlled recovery, and reduces the need for stronger medication later.

When to call

Recovery should follow a broadly improving pattern. Day by day, week by week, things get better. When that pattern changes, that's when to reach out.

Specific signs to look out for include:

• Pain that is increasing rather than decreasing after the first 48 to 72 hours
• A temperature above 38°C
• Increasing redness, warmth or swelling around the wound
• Any sudden change in the appearance of the wound
• Significant swelling on one side only
• Anything that feels different from what you were told to expect

I encourage early contact if something doesn’t feel right, often simple reassurance or early intervention is all that’s needed.

Ongoing support

Recovery isn’t the most glamorous part of this process. But it is the most important. The patients who treat it seriously, who rest when they’re told to and ask questions when something concerns them, have consistently better experiences and outcomes.

Surgery is a partnership. My role doesn’t end when you leave theatre. The support and guidance continue for as long as you need them – through the difficult first week, through the plateau and through the months of gradual improvement that follow. You won’t be left to manage this alone. I believe reassurance and access are key elements of high-quality care which is why you’ll receive clear, well-considered post-operative guidance; direct access to my team for any concerns and prompt review if anything requires assessment

When you’re ready to start the conversation about what surgery and recovery will look like for you, I’ll be glad to meet with you.