What Happens Right After Open Heart Surgery?

After surgery, patients are moved to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for close monitoring.

In the ICU:

• Heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen are monitored
• Breathing support may be needed temporarily
• Pain is carefully managed

Most patients stay in the ICU for 1–2 days, depending on recovery speed.

How Many Days in the Hospital After Open Heart Surgery?

For most patients, the total hospital stay is about 7–10 days.

A typical breakdown:

• ICU: 1–2 days
• Step-down or cardiac ward: 4–6 days

Some patients may go home sooner, while others may need a longer stay due to age, complications, or other medical conditions.

Factors That Affect Length of Hospital Stay

Your recovery time may be longer if you have:

• Diabetes or kidney disease
• Lung problems
• Infections
• Slow wound healing
• Irregular heart rhythm

Doctors monitor these closely before discharge.

Week-by-Week Recovery Timeline (After Discharge)

Week 1–2

• Fatigue is common
• Pain around the chest incision
• Short walks encouraged
• Assistance needed for daily activities

Week 3–4

• Energy slowly improves
• Reduced pain
• Light household activities allowed

Week 5–6

• Most patients feel stronger
• Driving may be allowed (doctor approval)
• Cardiac rehabilitation may begin

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Ask Rua for the week-by-week recovery timeline.

Chat with our WhatsApp agent for personalized guidance.

When Can You Return to Work?

This depends on your job type:

• Desk jobs: 6–8 weeks
• Physically demanding jobs: 8–12 weeks

Your doctor will guide you based on healing and strength.

Warning Signs During Recovery

Contact your healthcare provider if you notice:

• Fever
• Increasing chest pain
• Redness or discharge from the wound
• Shortness of breath
• Sudden weight gain or swelling

Not sure if a symptom is normal? Chat with our WhatsApp agent RUA for quick guidance.

Why Cardiac Rehabilitation Matters

Cardiac rehab helps:

• Improve heart strength
• Reduce future heart risks
• Build confidence during recovery

It is an important part of long-term recovery.

Why Many Patients Choose India for Open Heart Surgery

India offers:

• Experienced cardiac surgeons
• Advanced cardiac ICUs
• High success rates
• Affordable surgery packages

Patients from Bangladesh, Oman, Kenya, and Mauritius travel to India for open heart surgery and post-operative care.

How Karetrip Supports Your Surgery & Recovery

At karetrip.com, we support patients and families from surgery planning to recovery.

We help with:

• Hospital and surgeon selection
• Surgery coordination
• Medical visas, travel, and accommodation
• Post-surgery follow-up planning
• End-to-end patient support

Preparing for open heart surgery? Chat with our WhatsApp agent RUA for recovery planning and support.

Medical Disclaimer:

This content is for general awareness only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always follow your doctor’s instructions for recovery.