On discharge you will be given approximately 1-2 weeks of analgesia and any other required medications. It is advisable that you continue taking your analgesia for at least two weeks post discharge. With most analgesia it is advisable to take a regular laxative as all analgesia has a constipating side effect. If you require further medications your GP should be able to write a prescription. Alternatively, your consultant will prescribe if appropriate at your follow-up appointment.

In order to be discharged you need to be as independent as you were pre-surgery, if not more so.

It may be necessary to wear a corset post surgery when sitting or mobile for approximately six weeks.

When sitting, a high backed armchair is preferential to a low chair or sofa. Initially sitting may be uncomfortable and it would be advisable to sit for no more than 20 minutes at a time until you are more comfortable.

Your surgeon will advise, however it is common to abstain from driving for 3-4 weeks. You must be able to perform an emergency stop safely, without harming yourself or anyone else.

You are able to be a passenger in a car post surgery. It is advisable to sit in the passenger seat with the seat reclined and use a cushion for support if comfortable. If the journey is greater than 45mins have regular breaks and stretch your legs.

Your surgeon will advise, however it is common to abstain from flying for six weeks following surgery for short haul flights and 12 weeks for long haul flights. When flying it is advisable to recline your seat and regularly walk up and down the gangway.

Your consultant will advise you on this, however 6 weeks of rest, away from work, is common. If possible graduate your return to work; a few hours a day for a few days a week. If absolutely necessary to take public transport travel at quiet times, early morning or late morning, avoiding rush hour. If you are in a sedentary job regularly stand and walk around. If you have an active job you may require a longer period off work and should consider lighter duties on your return.

Walking is initially the best form of exercise for you and you should gradually increase the distance you are walking. Your consultant will not want you to undertake any formal physiotherapy until 12 weeks post surgery. When you do return to exercise you should gradually build up your activities.

Do not lift anything over 3kg in weight. You must not bend or twist until advised otherwise.

Your wound will have been closed with either clips or steristrips (paper strips) which will be removed 10-14 days post surgery. You will be advised pre-discharge of how to care for your wound. Ideally, the dressing should be changed every three days. You will have been given several spare waterproof dressings and may shower but not to bath. If you have clips in situ these will need to be removed by your practice nurse 10 days post surgery. Once the clips, or steristrips, have been removed the wound can be left uncovered and it is okay to get the wound wet.