Cheilectomy
Post Operative Instructions
Cast
You will have a small dressing following surgery
You will be able to begin walking in a regular shoe right after surgery (preferably a sandal or lose shoe to accommodate any swelling
Wound
The surgical incision has been closed with sutures
Do not get the dressing or wound wet for the first two weeks. When showering place a bag over the dressing and secure with tape to your leg to avoid the cast and wound getting wet
Do not remove the dressing until your 2 week appointment – the first dressing change will occur at your 2 week appointment
Stitches will be removed at your 2 week appointment
After the stitches are removed, you may begin to shower after 2-3 days
Do not immerse the foot in water (bath, hot tub, pool) for 4 weeks
Do not apply any lotions or creams on the wound for 6 weeks
Weight Bearing
You will be fully weight bearing immediately after surgery
You will be given crutches after surgery to help you for the first two weeks if needed (or you may bring your own)
Medications
You will be given a prescription for pain medication and Aspirin (blood thinner)
Pain medication should be used regularly for the first 24-48 hours, when required for the first 1 to 2 weeks, followed by Regular Tylenol
Driving
For right foot surgery you are not permitted to drive for 6 weeks
For left foot surgery, please contact your insurance company to see if you are permitted to drive
Driving is not permitted while on narcotics
Work
Two weeks off work is recommended for initial recovery
If you are able to get to work safely, and will be seated for the majority of the day, you may return to work a couple days after surgery. This is assuming you are not taking narcotic pain mediation.
From 2-4 weeks sedentary duties is recommended
By 4 weeks you can slowly return to your normal duties
If your job is physically demanding, return to full duties is usually possible around 6 weeks post operatively
Follow Up
You will have your first appointment 2-3 weeks after surgery in the Fracture Clinic
No further follow up appointments will be arranged
Recovery
It is normal to experience mild to moderate pain, numbness, or tingling for the first 2 weeks following surgery
Please come to the emergency department if you are suffering from severe pain
You will get back to most of your activities by 6 weeks
Swelling often remains for 6 months
You are expected to experience a FULL recovery (no pain, no swelling, ability to walk, etc.) in 6 months
Physiotherapy
No formal physiotherapy is necessary