Upon arrival home, lie down and elevate your feet on two pillows. DO NOT SHOWER OR GET THE DRESSING WET UNTIL AFTER YOUR SUTURES ARE REMOVED!
Remain quiet and off your feet as much as possible for the first 24-48 hours. This is when your feet first swell and may become painful. After 48 hours, you may begin limited walking.
Drink large quantities of water and citrus fruit juice. Consume no alcohol. Eat your regular well balanced meals.
Report any unusual discomfort or fever to this office.
A limited amount of discomfort and swelling is to be expected. In some cases, the skin may take on a bruised appearance. The surgical solution which is applied to your foot prior to surgery is dark in color and the operation site may appear to be oozing when it actually is not.
A slight amount of blood is to be expected and is no cause for alarm. DO NOT REMOVE THE DRESSING. If there is active bleeding, however, and if bleeding persists, add additional gauze to the bandage, apply direct pressure, elevate your feet and call this office.
When the anesthesia wears off and if any discomfort should be present, apply an ice bag directly over the operated area for 15 minute intervals for several hours or until the pain is gone. USE IN EXCESS OF 15 MINUTES COULD CAUSE FROSTBITE. Do not use hot water bags or electric pads. A convenient ice pack can be made by placing ice cubes in a plastic bag and covering this with a towel.
If necessary, take a mild laxative before retiring.
Wear your special open toe surgical shoe ANYTIME you put weight on your foot, even if it is just to walk to the bathroom and back. It will probably be 2-3 weeks before you will be permitted to try out your regular shoes depending on your procedure.
Having performed your operation, we are interested in your prompt recovery. Please cooperate with us by following the above instructions. If you need to reach Dr. DeLeonibus please do not hesitate to call one of the following numbers: Office-410-266-7666 Cell-443-223-0940
