Deep Vein Thrombosis Surgery Recovery Tips - Timeline, Diet, & Lifestyle Changes

Recovery Timeline

Recovery after DVT surgery takes several weeks. The exact timeline will be different for each patient, depending on the method used for treatment and the individual’s healing abilities. The recovery timeline will be as below- 

After Surgery:

• After the surgery, the patient may need to stay in the hospital for a few days so that the doctor may monitor his/her health and ensure that there are no complications.
• During this time, the patient is given medications to prevent further blood clots, manage pain and swelling, and promote healing.
• A physiotherapist will also provide physical therapy to help the patient regain his/her strength and mobility.

In the 1st Week: 

• After being discharged from the hospital, the patient will need to wear compression stockings to help prevent swelling and promote blood flow.
• He/she may also need to take blood thinners or other medications as prescribed by the doctor to prevent new blood clots from forming.
• The patient may still experience some pain and swelling during this time, but it should gradually start to improve.

Within 2-3 Weeks:

• By this time, the patient will have less pain and swelling in the treated area.
• It is safe to perform basic activities like walking, but strenuous activities should be avoided for a few more weeks until the doctor approves. 
• The medications need to be taken as prescribed and continue wearing compression stockings. 

Week 4-6 Weeks:

• By this time, the patient will start feeling much better and experience minor pain and swelling.
• The patient should be able to increase physical activities and resume most activities gradually.
• The doctor will advise the patient to take medications and wear compression stockings as prescribed for a little while longer.

After 6 Weeks:

• By this point, the patient would have fully recovered from DVT surgery and be able to resume all normal activities.
• The doctor may recommend regular check-ups to monitor the progress and ensure that the patient is not experiencing any complications or new blood clots.

Exercises & Lifestyle Changes Required After DVT Treatment

Life after deep vein thrombosis (DVT) will be difficult and stressful. Most patients believe they only need to take precautions for several months. But managing DVT will require the patients to adhere to the doctor’s instructions for the rest of their lives. Common exercises and lifestyle changes that will help prevent blood clot formation are-

• Stay as active as possible, as inactivity is a risk factor for DVT. Staying active and performing activities like walking, biking, swimming, etc., helps to improve the blood flow in the veins. Thus, there will be less risk of blood pooling in the veins and forming blood clots. The goal is to stay active, not inflict pain. So, don’t push your limits; try getting at least 2,000 steps daily. 
• Maintain a healthy weight, as obesity will increase the risk to a great extent. The extra weight can make it harder for the individual to move, ultimately promoting blood stasis and clot formation in the legs. Therefore, it’s crucial to maintain a BMI within the recommended range. 
• Quit smoking entirely. Smoking deteriorates nerve health and increases inflammation in the blood vessels. Tobacco use also affects the quality and number of blood platelets and white blood cells (WBCs) that form a clot. When the blood platelets and WBCs are abnormally high in numbers, it increases the risk of developing blood clots. 
• Stay hydrated, as dehydration can contribute to improper blood flow. When the blood cannot flow through veins efficiently, it starts pooling up. Thus, an individual should keep the body hydrated, especially during long flights or travel when he/she is immobile. 
• Manage stress levels. Increased stress levels have a direct impact on the blood pressure and nerve health. It can increase the risk of blood clots, strokes, and heart attacks.