Frequently Asked Questions
BEFORE MY APPOINTMENT
Dr. Pozzessere is in-network with some insurances and out-of-network in many others, but he accepts all patients. Our staff will review any costs associated with your care prior to your decision for treatment. If you would like to discuss your health condition with Dr. Pozzessere, do not let your insurance status hold you back. In most cases, our staff is able to help you develop a cost-effective plan for treatment, whether in-network or out-of-network.
Yes. To save time before your visit, you can download our intake forms on our Patient Information page and complete them prior to your visit.
Robotic surgery is a type of surgery where the surgeon uses an advanced robotic system to perform surgery through small incisions. The robotic system acts as a tool for the surgeon, holding instruments and using a magnified high-definition 3D camera to enable precise visualization and flexibility during surgery. The robot does not perform the surgery. It is controlled 100% by the surgeon.
Smaller incisions. Less pain. Quicker recovery. Shorter hospital stay
BEFORE MY SURGERY
- The Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, NJ
- Hackensack University Medical Center at Pascack Valley in Westwood, NJ
This depends on the specific surgery and the type of work that you do. If your job does not require lifting, you can typically return whenever you feel comfortable and ready. If your job involves manual labor, you may need to return with lifting restrictions.
AFTER MY SURGERY
- If you have skin glue over your incisions, you can shower the day after surgery. It is okay to let soap and water run over the incisions, then pat dry. You cannot submerge the incisions under water for 2 weeks.
- If you have bandages over your incisions, you can typically shower two days after surgery, when the bandages are removed, unless instructed otherwise.
Yes. The typical follow-up appointment after surgery is 1-2 weeks. Call the office to make an appointment.
- This depends on the type of surgery and your specific condition treated. In general, you can resume your normal daily activity the day after surgery. You can begin light cardiovascular activity 2 weeks after surgery. I recommend starting at half-speed and half-strength, then gradually increase over time. When resuming exercise, let pain be your guide. If you do something and it hurts, give yourself a few days rest before trying again.
- Hernia surgery requires longer weight-lifting restrictions than other surgeries. Six weeks without heavy lifting or strenuous abdominal activity is ideal for optimal healing.
Typically, you cannot drive on the day of your surgery because of the effects of anesthesia. After 24 hours, there is no specific time restriction on driving after surgery. When you feel comfortable that you can manage any quick stops and turns that may be required while driving, you can begin driving again. You cannot drive if you are still taking narcotic pain medications.
This depends on the type of surgery you are having. If you are having surgery or the TIF procedure performed for GERD and/or hiatal hernia, you will be on liquids and softer food for the first few weeks after surgery. You will need to avoid bread, meat, and carbonated beverage during the healing phase in the initial weeks after surgery. For gallbladder surgery, I typically recommend sticking to a low-fat diet for the first two weeks, then gradually introducing fats thereafter, if you desire. For colon surgery, a low fiber diet is recommended during the first few weeks of recovery.
