What To Expect After Your Surgery

Helping You Heal After Your Surgical Procedure 

After your procedure at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), you will be taken to a post-operative anesthesia unit (PACU) to recover. You will stay there until you are ready to be discharged or brought to your room.  

If critical care is needed, our critical care team offers specialized units designed to provide advanced treatment and monitoring around the clock. 

After Outpatient Surgery

If you are going home the same day, an adult will need to take you home. You should also try to have someone stay with you for at least 24 hours. You will not be able to drive for at least 24 hours.

After Inpatient Surgery

After inpatient surgery, you will be brought to a recovery room. Your care team will monitor your vital signs. You will rest until it is time for you to go to your room. Your family will be able to visit you during visiting hours.

Care After Hospital Discharge

The care team will tell you potential symptoms of complications to look out for and when to contact them if you have questions or concerns. They will also let you know when you should contact your care team and when you should seek emergency care.

After the procedure, you will have follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery. You may also access related rehabilitation services.

Post-Operative Pain & Recovery

For most surgeries, you can expect to have some pain afterwards. Your care team will work with you to manage your pain. They will also provide you with a discharge plan to help you manage your pain at home.

The recovery period will depend on the type of procedure you had, as well as other factors.  

Before you leave the facility, your care team will give you instructions on what to do and what not to do after your procedure. You will learn how to care for your incision and any diet changes you may need to make. You will also be given medication discharge instructions. Please do not hesitate to call us at 617-632-1010 with any questions.