Don’t let the flare ups floor you

The recovery from major reconstructive surgery is never a straightforward path. There are inevitable ups and downs and occasionally minor aggravations or re-injuries. These flare ups can occur anytime within the first twelve months after surgery and often come completely out of the blue. Sometimes it can be as simple as a change in the weather, or the way you slept.

For the great part, these flare ups do not represent a significant setback. Even with re-injury, it is very uncommon for the reconstruction or repair to be damaged. These flare ups do not require reinvestigation immediately. It is certainly worth persevering with Panadol, anti-inflammatories, and ice for a couple of days before getting too concerned.

If at all possible, do not go back onto strong narcotic painkillers with these flare ups. It disrupts the recovery cycle and commits you to a period of withdrawal from the stronger medications. If the flare up is persisting for more than a week without any signs of improvement, you should be reviewed.