Regional Patient Information

Managing Your Care From Afar

We have systems in place to ensure you are well supported throughout your journey. Telehealth consultations are available for pre-operative review, post-operative check-ins, and most follow-up appointments that do not require a physical examination. Our team is available by phone and email throughout your recovery.

Your wound dressing should remain on until at least 2–3 weeks post-op, and then be replaced with a simple Hypafix dressing that stays on for a few days to protect the wound after dressing removal. Try to keep the surgical wound dressing dry - whilst it is waterproof, it needs to be kept relatively dry so it lasts the 2–3 weeks. If you get splashes on it, do not worry - it can handle this.

Preparing to Fly Home

You can fly directly home after discharge - typically 2–4 nights post-operatively. Dr Liew may recommend staying an extra night if you require more independence before a long flight. Many regional patients also choose to stay in Adelaide for a few days or for their 2-week post-op visit before travelling home.

Boarding a flight will most likely require you to use a walking stick. A walking frame is usually not required, but if you used one prior to surgery, the same process applies on the way home. Airlines may have variable requirements if they notice you have had recent surgery - forms for Qantas, Virgin Australia, and REX are linked here.

Medications - you will have some controlled substances when you travel back, such as Endone or Palexia. Carry these in their original dispensed packaging and do not carry more than prescribed. This avoids any issues at customs.

Frequently Asked Questions