dr Laurent Goubau

Surgery Instructions: Forefoot Surgery

  • Surgery Instructions: Forefoot Surgery

dr Laurent Goubau

Surgery Instructions: Forefoot Surgery

Just had surgery on your toes? Download  Dr. Laurent Goubau's post-operative instructions to learn what to expect and do.

This information is to help you in recovery after foot/ankle surgery. Please read this information carefully. Feel free to ask the doctors and nurse any questions you may have about your recovery at home. You will receive further instructions at you next doctor’s visit.

Activities and Precautions:
  • Keep your foot dressing dry and intact.
  • When you shower it is advisable to wrap your foot in a towel and cover it with a plastic bag or cast shower bag. This will protect your dressing from getting wet. Alternatively, it is better to take a bath and keep your foot outside of the tub.
  • As needed, you should use crutches or a walker (unless you have been instructed not to by your doctor).
  • Keep your foot elevated as much as possible to help minimize swelling. “Toes above the nose” for at least 48hours. When lying in bed, place the lower extremity on 2 to 3 pillows. When sitting, place the lower extremity on a chair. You may also apply ice. If possible, wiggle toes frequently.
    • If necessary, take the following medications as prescribed at your discharge:
      • Dafalgan 1g 1tablet 4times a day
      • Ibuprofen 600mg 1 tablet 2times a day 
      • Oméprazole 20mg 1 tablet once daily
      • Tradonal odis 50mg 1-3 tablets daily 
      • Vitamine C 1g 1tablet daily during 6weeks
      • Oméprazole/vitamine C 7h00
        Dafalgan 7h00 13h00 19h00 23h00
        Ibuprofen 9h00 21h00
        Tradonal odis 11h00 17h00 23h00
      Stop taking these medications if you develop side effects
  • Your follow‐up appointment should be arranged for you within a week.


Please take your x‐rays/MRI’s/CT scans home with you
When to call your doctor
It is important to call your doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms:

  • Redness, swelling, warmth, tenderness from your incision or dressing.
  • Body temperature above 37.6°C for more than two days.
  • Significant increase in foot pain.
  • A small amount of bloody drainage may be normal, if it persists, you should call the office.