Outpatient Instructions

1. Remove the dressings after 48 hours. Leave steri-strips in place, if present. You may shower. Allow the surgical sites to air dry.
2. Complete the antibiotics as prescribed (if you were given antibiotics).
3. Do not take aspirin or anti-inflammatories for at least 48 hours after surgery.
4. Call 713-441-6102 for:
   • Redness or warmth around surgical site
   • A temperature above 101° F
   • Increased drainage that contains pus
   • Increased pain at the surgical site and/or
   • Bad odor from the site.
5. Call 713-441-6102 for a postoperative appointment. This appointment is usually 2 weeks after surgery.
6. If you had a repair of an abdominal bulge or hernia, do not lift anything over 5 pounds, push or pull objects.
7. If you went home with a drain, continue drain care as instructed and record output daily.