Recovery After Pilonidal Sinus Surgery: Timeline, Diet, & Exercises

Post-Operative Care After Pilonidal Sinus Surgery

Some of the tips to follow post your pilonidal sinus surgery include the following:

• You will be given a prescription for pain medication. Follow the directions strictly given by your doctor for taking this medication. To avoid an upset stomach, take the pain medication as prescribed with food in your stomach. Never take more than the recommended dose. If the medications are not working, consult your doctor immediately.
• Some people experience dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness, or a false sense of well-being after taking prescribed pain medications. Therefore, anyone who takes these medications should not drive, use heavy equipment, or do anything else that might be harmful. 
• Don’t lift anything heavier than 12 pounds until your doctor says it is okay.
• Take off from work/school for at least one to three weeks following your surgery. Your doctor will give you more guidance on returning to routine activities.
• If you have trouble sitting after your surgery, use a doughnut cushion.
• Avoid constipation:
  • Eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water daily unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
  • Use a stool softener and a fiber supplement twice a day. 

What Foods To Consume To Help Promote Healing After Pilonidal Sinus Surgery?

If you’ve had pilonidal sinus surgery, the foods you consume in the days, weeks, and months after your surgery can affect your healing and recovery. Eating the right foods and avoiding the wrong foods can keep you healthy while preventing any risks and complications. In addition, certain foods can be helpful after the surgery to assist in recovery and healing. As a general rule of thumb, know that you will need more calories, protein, fluids, vitamins, and minerals during the recovery process after your pilonidal sinus surgery.

Consider including the following in your diet:

Protein-rich food

Eating adequate protein after surgery is vital as your body needs more protein for wound healing. Protein also helps to build muscles and enhance the immune system. Examples of protein sources include:

• Lean meat, fish
• Egg
• Soy and soy products like tofu, fortified soy milk
• Milk and dairy products like yogurt, custard, cream, butter, etc
• Beans and lentils
• Nuts

Whole grains

Carbohydrates are a huge source of energy for the body. Whole grains are a huge source of carbohydrates as they are rich in fiber, help prevent constipation, and provide essential nutrients that enhance post-surgical wound healing. Examples of whole grains include:

• Oatmeal
• Cereals
• Whole wheat bread
• Brown rice
• Whole wheat noodles 

Fruits

In addition to fiber, fruits contain essential nutrients like vitamin C for reconstructing collagen and soft tissues. They also help in improving wound recovery. Fruits that are high in vitamin C include:

• Orange
• Apple
• Papaya
• Guava
• Peaches
• Banana
• Berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries)

Vegetables

Rich in vitamins and minerals, vegetables are also an important source of fiber, which is required to prevent constipation. Examples of high-fiber vegetables include:

• Green leafy vegetables
• Carrots
• Broccoli
• Bell peppers
• Brussel sprouts
• Sweet potatoes

Healthy fats

Like carbohydrates, fats are another excellent source of energy. It is advised by doctors to consume an adequate amount of healthy fats after surgery. Healthier options for fats include:

• Olive oil
• Canola oil
• Peanut oil
• Sunflower oil
• Sesame oil

Water

Staying hydrated after your pilonidal sinus surgery is important, as your body will require more fluid during wound healing. Dehydration can cause the skin to be more susceptible to breakdown. Consider drinking more:

• Water
• Milk
• Fortified soy beverages
• Soup
• Fruit/vegetable juice