• In the immediate period after surgery, you will get instructions for strategies that may help you feel better faster. These include keeping your head above your heart to help swelling go down, deep regular breathing with an incentive spirometer.
• Early mobilization with as much activity as possible, alternating with good rest, will help with recovery and lower the risk of blood clots in the legs.
• Constipation is a frequent problem after surgery. Take something to keep yourself regular to avoid straining.

Incisional discomfort usually improves after the first few days. Energy should gradually improve day by day. By six weeks after, energy should be good.

We do everything possible to perform surgery in a way that makes things as comfortable as possible. We will provide medication to assist in managing comfort.

A variety of strategies may help, such as guided meditation, an ice pack (in the first week), or a warming pad (especially after the first week).

Signs that should prompt a call to the office include:

• Severe headache
• Fever
• Changes in behavior
• Neck stiffness associated with light sensitivity
• Any redness or drainage of the incision

• Work: Generally, we recommend taking six weeks off work after surgery, though most people return earlier. Even if you are in excellent neurological shape, rest is needed for recovery.
• Driving: Do not drive until instructed after surgery. Most people can resume driving after the first postoperative visit.
• Exercise: Should be resumed gradually. If pressure is felt in the head during exercise, wait longer. Avoid exercises that involve lowering the head (e.g., yoga, deep bends, pushups) or heavy straining (e.g., heavy weight lifting) until later in recovery.

You can bathe normally from the neck down but use a shower cap at first.

You can wash your hair on the third day after surgery (e.g., if your surgery is Monday, you can wash your hair on Thursday). Use a dark towel for the first wash as there may be disinfectant or some blood products left in your hair.

A mild shampoo, such as baby shampoo, is recommended initially. After showering, pat your head dry gently.

Hair may be cut two weeks after any staples or sutures are removed, or four weeks after surgery, whichever comes first.

Any hair treatments should be reserved for five weeks after surgery or whenever instructed by your surgeon and care team.

Most patients will not need inpatient rehabilitation after surgery. However, in specific cases, we may recommend a rehabilitation stay to support your recovery.

Specialist physical therapy, occupational therapy, and/or speech therapy may be recommended based on individual needs.

A good, balanced diet is recommended after surgery just as before. A diet that promotes normal digestion and regular bowel movements is preferred.

Good nutrition is essential for a speedy and complete recovery and for optimizing neurological function. Your team can make diet recommendations and even restaurant suggestions in the area.

You can expect to be tired or to run out of energy earlier in the day at the beginning. Your memory, concentration, or attention may be slightly off—this is common after surgery and anesthesia.

Your mood may be affected as well, but everything will improve with time.

The goal of surgery is to leave you in good shape cognitively and emotionally. However, recovery varies, and some people take longer to feel fully recovered.

We will schedule post-operative check-ups to monitor your progress and ensure a smooth recovery.

We will provide medications after surgery, including those for pain and nausea, as well as other prescriptions as needed, such as for seizures or other conditions.

We offer support groups, counseling, and patient education to help you through your recovery process.