Post Shoulder Stabilization Surgery

The patient will wake up in the recovery room and then be transferred back to their hospital room.

• Pain medication will be provided to keep the patient comfortable.
• A bandage will be around the operated shoulder and the arm will be in a sling or brace.
• The sling will be worn for about 4-6 weeks to facilitate healing.

Dr Biggs will see the patient prior to discharge and explain the findings of the operation and what was done during Surgery.

• The bandage will usually be removed 48 hours post surgery and place dressings provided by your surgeon over the area.
• It is normal for the shoulder to swell after the surgery.Placing Ice-Packs on the shoulder will help to reduce swelling. Ice packs should be applied to the area for 20 min 3-4 times a day until swelling has reduced.

The patient should keep a pillow under their elbow while lying in bed.

• The patient will not be allowed to lift anything over your head or anything greater than 1 kilo for the first 6 weeks.
• 7-10 days after surgery Dr Biggs will see the patient to monitor their progress and remove the sutures.

It is recommended that the patient not drive during the first 6 weeks while wearing a sling due to safety reasons and the risk of injury to the surgical site.

The patient will be given specific instructions regarding activity and a rehabilitation program of exercise and strengthening.

Eating a healthy diet and not smoking will promote healing.