Surgery is a physically and mentally traumatic event, depending on the procedure and the general health of the patient the recovery time can differ greatly from person to person. Being fully prepared is the key to reducing the recovery time as well as physical discomfort and getting back up on your feet and back to your regular routine. You might imagine that there is very little you can do, but you will be surprised to know that various clinical studies have shown that good preparation can reduce recovery time by as much as 40%. In this portal we have put together a comprehensive presentation of tried and true methods that you can follow. A good recovery plan should include all four of the following elements in order to take care of your mind as well as your body:

· Knowledge- knowing what to expect means you will not have to worry that something is wrong – and if something strange happens then you must feel free to ask the medical professionals taking care of you, this is their job after all. Well before a procedure is to take place be sure that you know all there is to know about the surgery, the medical center, the surgeon, and the medical consequences of the surgery and so on.

· Careful Preparation – Consider carefully how best to prepare yourself and your home. Don't look at the recovery period as a trivial thing, everything from practical issues such as food and clean clothes right through to having a selection of good movies to watch and a good book to read can make all the difference. This is a sensitive time and you will not know how you will feel until it is upon you, it is always better to over prepare than to under prepare.

· Family Support- the support of your family and friends is crucial. You are going to need help and your family members will become, in many ways, like your own 'private nursing team'. You may be tempted to be brave and do it all yourself but in the long run you will not be helping yourself or anyone else. Prepare your family in friends in advance – it is often a good idea to allocate tasks to different people so that you do not rely to heavily on one person – and remember, they will also need you one day.

· Medical support- while it is true that any medical team who is in charge of your case has your best interests at heart at the end of the day it must be you who is in control. Ask questions and, as much as possible, get to know the people involved. They are the professionals and can provide you with vital medical support and knowledge. Most important, if you are not sure…..ask!