Ripp’s Story, part 4—First day of Post-op

Ripp is so far having an excellent recovery from his surgery! He shows NO signs of temporary nerve damage to his face, which was a possible complication that we were warned about. He has not been interested in eating today, but this is not at all surprising, given the high levels of pain medication he’s still receiving. He is alert, though, and will take himself outside to potty (good boy, Ripp!), and the team is pleased overall with his progress. Tomorrow morning they will try changing him over from the IV pain meds he needs for the first 24 hours after surgery to oral meds. If he remains comfortable after making this switch, he can be discharged that evening. If the oral meds don’t seem to be strong enough they will move him back to IV pain control for a little longer. Please Ripp, this is no time to be stoic!! Much as we want you home, let them know if you need more drugs!

A word of warning: in the post-surgery photos we’ll post as soon as we have them, Ripp is going to be sporting a REALLY bad haircut. Yes, think Mohawk bad…. But hair grows back, and we know you’ll still be glad to see him. ;-)