Your Surgery Post-Op
What to expect after your orthopaedic surgery with Dr Darren Paterson
Recovering after orthopaedic surgery involves a combination of hospital-based care, guided rehabilitation, and home-based recovery. Dr Darren Paterson’s team will support you at every stage to help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and return to your usual activities as safely as possible. Recovery is different for each person and depends on factors such as the type of surgery, your overall health, and how well you follow rehabilitation advice. In the early days, your care will focus on pain management, wound care, and gentle movement. As you progress, physiotherapy and exercise programs are introduced to rebuild strength, flexibility, and confidence in your joint. Ongoing support and follow-up appointments ensure your recovery is monitored and adjusted to suit your needs.
Immediate recovery in hospital
After your procedure, you will be transferred to the recovery area where your vital signs and comfort will be closely monitored as the anaesthetic wears off. Once you are stable, you will move to your hospital room.
Your healthcare team will assist with:
- Pain management – using a combination of medications tailored to your needs.
- Early mobilisation – physiotherapists will help you start gentle movement, often on the same day or within 24 hours after surgery.
- Wound care – keeping your incision clean and protected.
- Safe use of walking aids – such as crutches, a walker, or sticks.
The length of your hospital stay will depend on the type of surgery, your general health, and your recovery progress.
Discharge planning
Before you leave hospital, your team will ensure you have:
- A clear rehabilitation plan and physiotherapy referral
- Instructions for wound care and showering
- Pain relief prescriptions
- Information about activity restrictions
- Your follow-up appointment schedule
If needed, arrangements can be made for inpatient rehabilitation or home-based physiotherapy.
Pain management at home
Some discomfort is expected after surgery, but this should gradually improve over time. You may be prescribed a combination of medications to help manage pain. Always take these as directed and let the team know if your pain is not well controlled. If you need additional pain relief after your initial prescription runs out, please visit your GP to discuss ongoing medication needs and obtain further scripts.
Wound and dressing care
Looking after your wound properly is an important part of recovery and helps lower the risk of infection. Before you leave hospital, Dr Paterson’s team will provide clear instructions so you feel confident managing your dressing at home.
Keep the wound area clean and dry
Follow the dressing change schedule you have been given
Monitor for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, warmth, discharge, or increasing pain
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact Dr Paterson’s rooms promptly for further advice.
Activity and movement
Staying active after surgery is important for your recovery, but it’s just as important to progress at the right pace to avoid strain on your healing joint. Your physiotherapist will guide you through safe exercises and activity levels at each stage of your recovery.
- Gradually increase your walking distance and daily activities as advised by your physiotherapist
- Avoid high-impact movements or heavy lifting until cleared by your surgeon
- Use mobility aids for as long as recommended to protect your surgical site
Follow-up appointments
Your first post-operative review is usually within 2–6 weeks, depending on your procedure. These visits allow Dr Paterson to check your wound, review your mobility, and adjust your recovery plan.
When to seek urgent medical attention
While some discomfort and swelling are expected after surgery, there are certain symptoms that require prompt medical review. Contact your hospital or Dr Paterson’s rooms immediately if you experience:
Severe or worsening pain that is not relieved by medication
Fever, chills, or other signs of infection
Sudden swelling, redness, or warmth in the leg
Chest pain or difficulty breathing
If you feel very unwell or are unable to reach medical support quickly, call 000 for emergency assistance.