### Recovery After Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery **Initial Hospital Stay** After CABG surgery, you'll be taken to the intensive care unit (ICU) for close monitoring. The average ICU stay is about 3 to 4 days, but it can vary. If you have other health conditions like diabetes, your recovery might be slower. **Breathing and Eating** Initially, you'll have a breathing tube to help you breathe and a stomach tube for nourishment. These tubes are usually removed within 24 hours. You'll start with liquids and gradually move to solid foods. **Pain Management** You'll be given pain relievers for your surgical incision, which might be sore for several days. Only take medications prescribed by your doctor. **Moving Around** By the time you leave the ICU, you'll be encouraged to walk around and do light activities. Most people go home within a week and can take showers, climb stairs, and do self-care. **At Home** Recovery at home takes about 6 to 12 weeks. You'll need to keep your surgical site clean and dry. Light activities like cooking and short walks are usually okay right away. After 4-8 weeks, with your doctor's approval, you can gradually return to more strenuous activities. **Cardiac Rehabilitation** You may start a cardiac rehab program while still in the hospital. This program helps you adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle and usually lasts about 12 weeks. **Lifestyle Changes** CABG surgery is not a cure for heart disease. You'll need to take medications and make lifestyle changes to prevent further plaque buildup. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising, quitting smoking, and managing stress. **Mental Health** It's normal to feel anxious or depressed after surgery. Don't hesitate to seek professional help to manage your emotions. **Follow-Up** You'll have follow-up visits to remove any sutures or staples and to monitor your progress. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself during recovery.