Recovery and follow-up

Before leaving the hospital

Ask your treating team for a written plan you can understand. It should explain wound care, prescribed medicines, activity restrictions, planned check-ups and whom to contact during and outside working hours.

Recovery varies by person and procedure. Do not schedule work, childcare, travel or physical activity around an assumed standard recovery time; ask the treating team what is appropriate for you.

Know who to call

• How can I contact the treating team day and night?
• Which symptoms require urgent local medical help?
• Who is responsible for follow-up after I return home?
• How will my medical records and instructions be shared safely with my local clinician?

When urgent help is needed

Sudden breathing difficulty, chest pain, fainting or other severe symptoms need urgent local medical attention. Do not wait for a remote reply. Your own team should explain additional warning signs specific to your situation.

Returning home

If you have travelled for care, agree the timing of your return with the treating clinician. Surgery and air travel can both increase the risk of a blood clot; do not assume there is a single safe travel date for everyone.

Before leaving, ask for procedure details, medicines, a contact plan and information about any follow-up already arranged. Confirm who pays for unexpected care.