Head surgery: what to expect and how to prepare

Facing head surgery feels huge. You probably have a lot of questions: what kind of operation will you get, how risky is it, and how long before you’re back to normal? This page gives straightforward, practical answers so you can go in knowing what matters most.

Head surgery covers several kinds of procedures — craniotomy for tumor removal, burr holes for pressure relief, endoscopic procedures for pituitary or sinus issues, aneurysm clipping or coiling, and shunt placement for hydrocephalus. The goal and approach change everything: some surgeries are urgent, others planned. Ask your surgeon to explain the exact name of the procedure and the expected benefit in plain words.

Before the operation — practical prep

Start by getting clear instructions from your surgical team. Typical steps include imaging (MRI or CT), blood tests, and a medication review. Stop blood thinners if your doctor says so — that’s a common reason for delays. Don’t guess about supplements: many herbal remedies affect bleeding or anesthesia.

Packing a hospital bag? Bring a list of medicines, a copy of your ID and insurance info, comfortable clothes for discharge, and a phone charger. Arrange a ride home and someone to stay with you for the first 48–72 hours. Your brain needs rest; you won’t be ready to handle everything alone.

Choosing the right surgeon matters more than anything else. Ask about board certification, how many times they’ve done this exact procedure, complication rates, and expected recovery length. A second opinion is reasonable and often helpful.

After surgery — what recovery looks like

Early recovery usually happens in ICU or a monitored unit. You may have drains, a wound, or temporary weakness. Headaches and nausea are common in the first days. Pain control is balanced with avoiding heavy sedation so you can be assessed neurologically.

Physical and occupational therapy often start quickly if needed. Speech and cognitive therapy may be part of the plan for some procedures. Expect follow-up imaging and clinic visits to check healing and function. Return-to-work timing varies hugely — from a couple of weeks for minor cases to months for major surgery.

Watch for red flags: sudden worsening weakness, new loss of vision or speech, severe increasing headache, high fever, or pus/clear fluid leaking from the wound. Contact your team or emergency services immediately if those occur.

Practical tips that help: follow wound-care instructions, slowly increase activity per your surgeon’s advice, keep a clear medication list, avoid heavy lifting for the advised period, and get help at home for chores early on. Recovery is gradual, and small daily improvements are the real progress markers.

If you want, bring specific questions to your next visit — ask about expected timelines, signs to report, and any lifestyle changes you’ll need. Good communication with your surgical team is the best tool you have for a safer recovery.