Patient Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Recovery specifics we’re asked about most — discomfort, swelling, medications, and getting back to normal life.
Anticipated Discomfort Levels Post-Procedure
During the initial days of recovery, you should anticipate a degree of mild to moderate discomfort characterized by soreness and inflammatory swelling. Generally, your pain levels are expected to remain manageable, typically staying below a 5 on a 10-point scale.
Typical Swelling Patterns and Duration
Post-operative swelling is a standard part of the healing process and usually persists for approximately three weeks. These fluctuations in fluid retention are influenced by your level of activity, limb elevation, and the consistent use of correctly fitted compression garments. Patients most frequently observe swelling in all areas treated as well as the hands and feet.
Recommendations for Cold Therapy
Ice packs may be utilized to enhance your comfort levels. We recommend applying cold therapy in intervals of 10-20 minutes followed by 20 minutes of rest.
Commonly Prescribed Post-Operative Medications
A multi-modal regimen consisting of Tylenol (500mg), Ibuprofen (600mg), and Gabapentin (300mg) is prescribed following your two-week pre-operative consultation. This combination is highly effective in managing surgical discomfort. The use of narcotic medications for breakthrough pain will be addressed on an as-needed basis.
Do I need to buy my own medications?
You may use the prescriptions provided by our office, or purchase standard acetaminophen and ibuprofen at a local pharmacy or from home.
Do I need absorbent bed pads?
Not always strictly required, but having some on hand can be beneficial. Our clinical team provides an initial supply following your procedure — purchase a single pack locally if you’d like extra coverage.
Will there be fluid leakage on my clothes?
To mitigate visible drainage, we recommend wearing dark-colored clothing during the early stages of recovery.
How are my incisions cared for early on?
Your procedure involves internal and external dissolvable sutures that typically resolve within three weeks. Incisions are secured with steri-strips, with extra supplied if any detach early. Nursing performs incision care at post-op visits, with ongoing guidance via Klara or telehealth for traveling patients.
When does scar management begin?
Active scar treatment generally starts at the three to six-week mark. Once steri-strips are removed at three weeks, Aquaphor may be applied, followed by hydrocolloid tape and/or silicone-based tape.
What scar products do you recommend?
We don’t mandate a specific brand, but the Prequel Scar Stick is a frequently favored option among our patients.
How do I get home the day of surgery?
Your aftercare support partner should arrange rideshare transportation immediately post-operation. If you’ve chosen Prestige Aftercare, our team coordinates your transport from the surgical center.
When can I start walking again?
Assess your mobility daily — many patients manage a 10 to 15-minute walk the day after surgery. We encourage gentle outdoor walking as soon as you feel able.
When can I return to exercise?
Activity is limited to leisure walking for the first three weeks. Incline walking or hilly terrain can resume after three weeks, with a full return to exercise between four and six weeks post-op.
What if I have an urgent concern after hours?
Call our office at 310-882-5454 — this line transitions to our after-hours service at 5:00pm and allows you to reach Dr. Schwartz directly. For anything requiring immediate intervention, local urgent care or emergency services are always available.
Have a question we didn’t cover?
Our team is here to help you feel ready for every step ahead.