Appendectomy Recovery Guide | What to Expect After Appendix Surgery

Recovering from an appendectomy can leave you with a lot of questions: How much pain is normal? When can you drive, work, exercise, or lift again? What should your incisions look like? And when should you call your surgeon?

This 14-page, surgeon-designed recovery guide gives you a clear, practical roadmap for the days and weeks after appendix removal.

Inside, you’ll find:

• A step-by-step recovery timeline
• What to expect during the first 24–48 hours
• Guidance on pain, eating, constipation, and urination
• Walking, driving, work, exercise, and lifting guidance
• Incision and wound-care information
• Special guidance after perforated or complicated appendicitis
• Drain-care instructions if you were sent home with a drain
• A clear Green / Yellow / Red guide for knowing when symptoms may need medical attention
• A printable daily recovery checklist

The guide uses clear language and detailed medical illustrations to help you understand what is happening during recovery without overwhelming you with medical jargon.

Created by Dr. Jordan Shively, DO — General & Robotic Surgery

Designed for patients recovering after laparoscopic, robotic, or open appendectomy.

Digital PDF download • 14 pages

This guide is for general educational purposes and does not replace the instructions or medical advice provided by your own surgeon or healthcare team.