“What are the restrictions after open heart surgery?”
I am a 52 year old female. I want to know what are the restrictions after open heart surgery?
2 Answers
CardiothoracicSurgeonCardiothoracicSurgeon
Generally, you are restricted in lifting more than 10-15 lbs for the first 6 weeks until the breastbone heals. No driving on narcotic pain meds. Walking and leg elevation when in bed are good. A lot of people have extra fluid weight after heart surgery so you may be on a fluid pill (diuretic). The start of "cardiac rehab" depends on your heart status and needs to be per your heart surgeon and cardiologist.