Preparing for any surgical procedure can be a stressful process for patients to go through. The same applies to those that have had shoulder replacements. For this reason, we do everything in our power to inform and guide our patients on the best medical solutions to resolve any issues they may be experiencing while providing them with the best customer care possible.
The recovery of a shoulder replacement can take three to six months for moderate shoulder function and up to a year to regain full mobility.
Within this recovery period, it’s crucial to integrate procedures into your daily routines to remain consistent and guarantee the full recovery of your shoulder. One of these vital procedures relates to your hygiene post-surgery and how they should take place to ensure that the recovery process goes as smoothly as possible.
Dr. Dewan typically uses a waterproof dressing after surgery. This allows you to shower immediately after surgery. Using a shower chair is important to reduce the risk of slipping and falling in the shower. The shoulder brace can be removed for showering as long as the arm is supported in the lap.
After 72 hours typically the bandage can be removed and the wound exposed to water and soap in the shower. Soaking in a tub or pool is often not permitted for at least 4 weeks after surgery, that is, until there is full confidence that the wound has completely sealed with a healed skin barrier.