Recovery

How to recover from a carotid endarterectomy

It usually takes a few weeks to fully recover after having a carotid endarterectomy.

You may have a follow-up appointment with your specialist after your operation to check on your progress and discuss any problems you have.

Recovering in hospital

After the operation, you'll spend some time in a recovery room before being moved to a ward.

Your blood pressure and pulse will be monitored and the movement in your face, arms and legs will be checked.

If you have any pain or discomfort in your neck, you'll be given painkillers to take for the first few days.

You should be able to move and walk within a few of hours of the operation. You'll also be able to eat and drink.

If you have a small plastic drain in your neck, it's usually removed the day after the operation. Your neck may be bruised and swollen, but this will get better after about a week.

You'll also have a scar several centimetres long on your neck that will usually fade and disappear after a few months.

Recovering at home

Your care team will talk to you about when you can leave hospital. This will usually be the day after the operation.

You may be given medicines, such as aspirin and statins. They will help thin your blood, prevent blood clots and lower your chances of having a stroke. You may need to take statins for the rest of your life.

After having a carotid endarterectomy, there are things you can do to help with your recovery.

Do

get plenty of rest and return to your normal activities gradually
start to do some gentle exercise when you feel able to (avoid strenuous activity, such as contact sports, for about 6 weeks)
speak to your doctor about returning to work - you may be able to go back to work after a few weeks, but it will depend on the type of work you do

Don't

do not lift heavy objects for at least 6 weeks after the operation
do not have a bath or shower until your wound is dry - your care team will give you advice about caring for your wound
do not smoke as it will make your recovery time longer and increase your chance of having a heart attack or stroke

Driving after a carotid endarterectomy

Do not drive until your neck is free of pain and you're able to look over your shoulder. It can take around 4 to 6 weeks for your neck to fully recover after the operation.

Your doctor will be able to advise you about whether it's safe for you to drive.

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