What happens after my surgery?

You'll be taken directly up to the Intensive Care Unit, where specially trained nurses give you individual care. The doctor will go with you and once he's sure you're settled, he'll talk to your family and answer any questions they may have. Your family will be allowed to visit you at that time.

Let your family know that you may appear sleepy or groggy and pale at that time. This is normal after a major operation, and with all the good care you'll receive in the ICU, these effects will quickly subside.

When do all the tubes come out?

Most likely, the breathing tube will be out before you leave the OR, or it will be quickly removed once you start to wake up; more oxygen will be available through nasal prongs or a mask.

You will also have chest tubes to help blood and fluids drain away from the heart; these are generally removed within 24-48 hours.

What kind of scars will I have?

You will probably have had an incision from the top to bottom of your sternum, approximately 4-6 inches in length. In some minimally invasive procedures, the incision is much more limited.

If you have had a bypass, you will have an incision on your arm or leg where the vein and/or artery was harvested.

How long will I be in the hospital?

The average post-surgical hospital stay is 3-5 days, and occasionally a week. After your stay in the ICU, you'll be moved to a telemetry bed on a "step-down" unit; there your heart will be monitored until you go home. You'll be up and walking by then!

Will I be able to talk to my surgeon during recovery?

Absolutely. Our doctors make rounds every day; so do our nurses and physician's assistant. Your care from Illinois Cardiac Surgery does not end when the surgery is over.

What about pain?

Everyone is different. But whatever your discomfort level, you will receive the appropriate medication to begin to move, cough, and breathe deeply.

How might I expect to feel emotionally?

Many patients are thrilled to feel well again. Some experience temporary depression and mood swings, perfectly normal considering the stress, medications and unfamiliar setting associated with heart surgery.

Can I stay home alone?

We recommend that family members or friends stay with you for a week or two following discharge.

When can I shower?

Immediately upon discharge and your return home.

Any restrictions on activities?

Please don't push, pull or lift more than ten pounds for the first two months; 20-25 pounds in the third month, and after that, you may return to normal activities.

Walking is encouraged. Just remember to start slowly and gradually increase the time and distance each day.

A cardiac rehabilitation program (typically in your own community) is a good way to help improve your fitness and get together with other patients who have had similar surgeries. We'll give you that information before discharge.

What about diet?

You'll start a "cardiac diet" immediately. That means low-sodium, low cholesterol. Don't be surprised if you have little appetite at first; as less medicine is required, you'll return to normal.

When can I drive again?

That can be decided when you come in for your post-surgical check-up, usually two weeks after surgery.

And last but not least…sexual activity?

Again, everyone's different and you know yourself best. Like walking, it's best to begin moderately and build up to what's normal for you.