Medical Health Encyclopedia

After surgery, it takes 4-6 weeks to start feeling better. During recovery it is normal to:

• Have a poor appetite -- it will take several weeks for it to return.
• Have swelling in the leg if the graft was taken from the leg. Elevating the leg and wearing elastic TED hose for several weeks helps reduce swelling.
• Have difficulty sleeping at night -- this will improve.
• Have constipation.
• Have mood swings and feel depressed -- this will get better.
• Have difficulty with short-term memory or feel confused -- this also improves.

The full benefits from the operation may not be determined until 3-6 months after surgery. Sexual activities may be resumed 4 weeks after surgery. All activities that do not cause fatigue are permitted, and the schedule for resuming normal activities is determined with the physician.