Read our Bypass Surgery FAQ to understand more about bypass surgery. Your situation may be different and you should not rely on these questions and answers to be relevant to your individual case. Stay in contact with your doctors and do not be afraid to ask questions.
How do I make a follow up appointment?
You should set a follow-up visit with your surgeon two weeks after your discharge date. Your cardiologist will also want to follow up with you. [back to FAQ list]
I’ve lost my appetite and I’m feeling depressed, is this normal?
Losing your appetite after surgery is normal. Once you are more physically active your appetite will begin to return. Eating several small meals several times a day (even when you’re not hungry) will help.
Depression is also normal after a large and invasive surgery such as coronary artery bypass. Understand that it’s usually temporary and you can help yourself recover by getting outside in the sun and keeping in touch with friends and family members. You’ll need help immediately after surgery, but you should get out of bed every morning and get dressed. This will take effort at first but will help your attitude and mood. [back to FAQ list]
When can I return to work?
Depending upon what type of work you do, most patients are able to return to work 6 to 8 weeks after their surgery. You will not be able to lift anything over 5 pounds for at least 2 months to allow time for your sternum to heal properly. [back to FAQ list]
When can I begin driving?
Typically after bypass surgery you can begin driving 6 to 8 weeks after your surgery. You will be told at your follow-up visit (2 weeks after you are discharged from the hospital) if there are any changes to this estimated time frame. [back to FAQ list]
What about lifting?
After bypass surgery, you should not lift anything over 5 pounds for at least 8 weeks after surgery. Once that time has passed, gradually work up to lifting heavier items. This is to allow your sternum time to heal. This goes for swinging a golf club as well! The bone needs time to heal before you begin twisting and lifting heavy objects. [back to FAQ list]
When can I resume sexual activity?
All heart patients have concerns about resuming sexual activity. As a general rule, once you can climb two flights of stairs without any problems you can resume your normal sexual activity. However, do not expect too much too fast. It will take time to get back to your “before heart surgery” routine. Avoid drinking alcohol as it is a depressant and makes your heart work harder. If you are nervous, foreplay is advised to gradually increase your heart rate. Should you feel any chest discomfort, irregular heartbeats or shortness of breath (that does not return to normal shortly afterward) consult with your cardiologist. [back to FAQ list]
What type of diet should I be eating?
Selecting heart healthy foods is always advised. Try to eat less fat and cholesterol. Eating more whole grain breads and beans is good. Skim milk or 1% is better than whole milk or even 2%. When eating chicken, remove the skin before cooking and try to choose white meat rather than dark meat. Try sherbert instead of ice cream. Use egg whites instead of whole eggs or even try egg substitutes as an alternative. Snack smart–pretzels, low fat crackers, raw vegetables and fruit are great snacks. When shopping for groceries, try to plan your meals and snacks so you are not tempted to purchase junk food. [back to FAQ list]
When can I exercise?
Walking is a great exercise. You should begin walking before you leave the hospital. Work up to walking around the block within a few weeks of being discharged. Start walking around inside your house several times a day. Then walk outside with someone else, a few houses down and back. Once you feel comfortable walking to the end of the block and back try around the block. Speed will come with time. Use your best judgment and pace yourself stop and rest when you feel it is necessary. Don’t expect a marathon to occur all in one day!
Remember walking is not only beneficial to your heart. If the weather is inclement or your neighborhood streets and sidewalks are uneven, walking in an indoor shopping mall is great. You can meet other walkers over time and form great friendships!
These are a few of the most common questions we get from patients. Each patient’s recovery will be different. If you have other questions, consult with your doctor. [back to FAQ list]
Off-pump Bypass Surgery – An Introduction
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