What to expect after rib stabilisation surgery

 I've had quite a few questions about what to expect after surgery, from people who are going to have the surgery themselves.  So here is some information based on my experiences.

I stayed in hospital 2 nights after surgery, I could have easily stayed another night, but I was worried about the cost. 

I couldn't lie down flat straight away, but the hospital bed propped me up.  I had booked a hotel to stay in after surgery, but it was too uncomfortable trying to lie flat so we ended up driving 7 hours home.  I lay my seat back on an angle, and had an ice pack on my ribs.  Holding a pillow against my ribs for any bumps in the car helped too.

I spent the first 2 weeks after surgery sleeping in a reclining chair.  I purchased it before surgery, secondhand online.  I made sure I got one that is electric and also has the control to go up and down on a cord so I can reach it easily.  This is similar to the one I got.  

After 2 weeks I purchased a wedge like this one and was able to sleep in bed.  I used it for about a week then could lie flat.

I couldn't do anything much for myself for the first 2 weeks after surgery, and while I was improving every day, anything that involved using my core was difficult.  

Here are some things I found quite challenging after surgery

• Sitting too long
• Being on my feet too long 
• Lifting things 
• Picking things up off the floor or bending 
• Brushing my hair
• Lying flat 
• Wearing a bra
• Reaching my feet
• Sneezing/coughing/laughing

I made sure I took small walks most days, starting a week after surgery, just going a really small distance. At 4 weeks after surgery I was walking around 1km most days. Walking has helped with my recovery, it's really important to stay mobile in some way.

I took the pain medications regularly for the first 2 weeks, then cut down.  It's important especially for the first couple of weeks to make sure you're not in too much pain.  I was really nauseous for the first week or so, from the medications I guess.  

I used ice regularly, and even at 6 weeks post op I am still swollen and still ice my ribs almost every day.

The main thing is, listen to your body - everyone is different. Be kind to yourself ❤️ 

Here's a picture of me in my reclining chair