Key considerations for a smooth recovery after heart surgery

We recommend that you engage in daily physical activity. Exercise helps to keep your heart and blood vessels healthy. Build up your fitness level gradually. A good approach is to walk for 30 minutes a day, which keeps you active without putting excessive strain on your chest. If you want to cycle, you should use a stationary bike only during the first few weeks after surgery. Be cautious with asymmetric movements, take your wound healing into account, and avoid lifting heavy objects (e.g. carrying a bucket of water when cleaning, a full watering can to water plants, removing multiple plates from the dishwasher at once, or lifting young children).

See tips and exercises to help you move more efficiently (in Dutch).

A healthy and balanced diet helps to keep your heart and blood vessels in good condition. In the hospital, you can consult a dietitian to discuss your diet and, if necessary, establish a personalised meal plan. In the first few weeks after surgery, we advise against extreme weight loss. Following an operation, the body actually requires more protein and calories to support the recovery process.

Read the brochure 'Healthy eating for cardiovascular disease' (in Dutch).

Always drink alcohol in moderation. Alcohol can affect how your medication works, which may lead to side effects.

A complete cessation of smoking is strongly recommended, as smoking increases your risk of cardiovascular diseases. By quitting smoking, you also reduce the risk of complications (e.g. wound and bone healing problems, pneumonia).

It takes approximately six weeks for your chest to fully heal. Light household chores such as cooking, washing dishes, or dusting are not a problem. However, in the first few weeks, avoid heavy lifting (e.g. carrying groceries), vacuuming, mopping, gardening, DIY work, or walking the dog.

It is important to ensure you get enough rest during the first few weeks. Receiving visitors is pleasant, but make sure you are not overwhelmed. Listen to your body and rest whenever you need to.

It is advisable not to stay home alone during the first week. It is not necessary to have someone with you all day, but it is wise to have someone nearby in case of need.

If your recovery is progressing well, travelling is certainly possible. However, it is advisable to discuss your travel plans with your cardiologist or GP during your first check-up. They will assess whether travelling is medically appropriate.

Some key considerations when travelling:

• Avoid heat and strenuous physical activities.
• Avoid exposing your wound(s) directly to sunlight. Use adequate sun protection such as clothing and sunscreen.
• Ensure you have enough medication and the necessary medical certificates.
• Avoid long car journeys for comfort reasons.

Most patients can return to work between six weeks and three months after surgery. However, this depends on the type of procedure you had and the nature of your job. We recommend discussing your return to work during your first check-up with your cardiologist. It is often advisable not to resume full-time work immediately but to start gradually.

After heart surgery, you are temporarily prohibited from driving. This is not only for medical reasons but also due to legal restrictions. In practice, you cannot drive until your cardiologist has declared you medically fit to do so. This will be discussed at your first consultation after surgery. Your cardiologist will complete a certificate, which you must keep with your driving licence. For further information, you can contact the CARA (centre for driving ability and vehicle adaptation).

There is no medical reason why you cannot travel as a passenger in a standard car. Wearing a seatbelt remains mandatory, even after heart surgery.