Shared Thoughts on Shared Recovery

Some couples choose to coordinate surgery—either on the same day or in a staggered fashion. If both partners have general anesthesia on the same day, a third party is required to take them home and support them overnight. Alternatively, surgeries can be scheduled on different days so partners can care for each other during recovery.

We customize these plans based on the type of procedure, anesthesia requirements, and distance from home to our Toronto surgical center. Some couples choose to recover in a hotel for a few nights to get some space from kids or pets. Many couples find that this shared experience deepens connection and mutual appreciation. We asked a couple who recently chose to recover together to share their thoughts on shared recovery:

Q: You chose to plan your surgeries around supporting one another—what did you learn about being a good partner during surgical recovery?

We feel the most important aspect during recovery is to be aware of which partner is most able to support the other partner. That way the stronger partner can provide the most assistance to the partner in greater need.

In our first surgery [he] needed more assistance that [she] needed. In our second surgery [she] required more care. The partner who is more mobile must place the needs of the other first even though they are also a recovering patient. They have to realize that that they have to be the primary support system.

Getting together to support each other in every way is paramount in a successful rehabilitation for both parties.

Q: What advice would you give about going through the process together?

Its much easier to go through it together than to go through it alone. Knowing that their compassion for you at the time is genuine as they are also in recovery. Loving the person unconditionally. It makes your marriage stronger knowing that your partner is there for you 100%.

Recovery easier knowing that your partner encourages you daily to forge ahead with even the smallest amount of progress. Small wins throughout the process leads to a big win in the end for both parties.

The most important aspect of all of this is that you trust your surgeon with your life. Knowing that he is just one call away is most comforting and is paramount in both patient’s recovery.