The better your physical condition is, the better a surgical outcome will be. Elective surgery (surgery that is planned ahead of time) may give you some time to prepare to be as healthy as possible. Some surgeries must be done right away, so there is little time to prepare.

There are three things people can do to get ready for, and heal from, surgery:

• keep active with regular exercise
• stop smoking
• eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of protein and adequate vitamins and minerals for healing

People who are in good physical shape for surgery may benefit by having:

• an easier time moving and turning after surgery
• more resistance to infection
• faster wound healing

After surgery, you will be told when you can start moving. Many people are sitting up in bed and dangling their legs within hours after surgery. Most are up and walking short distances within 24 hours after major surgery. Pain medication can be given to make movement less painful. For safety, someone will help you the first time you get up and thereafter, as needed.

Report problems if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, short of breath or continue to feel unsteady. Exercise is just one aspect of healing. Proper nutrition, smoking cessation and following your health care provider's advice are just as important.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a health care professional.