Recovery Time for Brain Surgery

Facing brain surgery is undoubtedly a challenging and emotional journey. Whether you’re recommended for a craniotomy or any other form of brain surgery, understanding what to expect during recovery is crucial for your peace of mind.

In this blog, we'll provide insights into the average recovery time for brain surgery, what you can expect during the healing process, potential risks and side effects, and tips for a smoother recovery.

Recovery times after a brain tumor surgery will ultimately depend on several factors, such as the type of tumor being treated, the surgical procedure performed, and your overall age/health.

If a pituitary tumor is removed using an endoscopic approach through the nose, you can expect a hospital stay of 2-3 days, with recovery at home taking 4-6 weeks. Special care is taken to ensure the healing of nasal sinuses in this case.

On the other hand, craniotomy, which involves removing a section of the skull to access the tumor, usually requires an extended hospital stay of 5-6 days (sometimes less). Recovery at home can extend up to 6 weeks, with postoperative visits scheduled every 3-6 months until complete healing is achieved.

Again, the recovery time is different for different patients who undergo the same procedure.

Meningiomas, which develop from the brain's protective covering, often necessitate a craniotomy for access. Because of this, hospital stays typically range from 2-3 or more days. Still, this duration may vary based on the tumor's location and the areas of the brain that were affected. Surgery on the deeper parts of the brain will require a longer recovery.

You may be prescribed steroids in the initial week post-surgery to reduce swelling; medication to prevent seizures may also be recommended. Return to regular activities or work can occur as early as 2-4 weeks, but it might also take as long as 6-12 weeks, depending on the type of surgery performed and the nature of your work. Patients who perform desk work can return to work earlier as compared to those involved with physically demanding jobs.

Acoustic neuromas are typically benign tumors of the vestibulocochlear nerve. Not all patients with acoustic neuroma will require surgery, but you may be recommended for one if you are young or the tumor is large and cannot be treated with other methods.

Like other brain surgeries, acoustic neuroma surgery involves a craniotomy to access the tumor. Hospital stays are usually around 3-5 days, and returning to regular activity may take 6-12 weeks. This tumor is located deep in the brain and the length of surgery is usually long and therefore the recovery is typically more extended.

Complete recovery can extend over several weeks, with possible lingering facial weakness, numbness, or hearing loss. If these symptoms do not resolve after 6-12 months, it’s best to see an ENT specialist.

Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in your recovery. After surgery, you will be closely monitored to prevent complications and ensure a safe transition from the hospital to your home.

Physical and occupational therapists will assess when it's safe to return home. Physical therapists focus on helping you regain motor skills and strength, while occupational therapists assist you with daily activities like eating, dressing, and personal hygiene.

Emotional and cognitive changes are also common after brain surgery, but they can, unfortunately, create frustrations for you and your loved ones. Cognitive rehabilitation helps you improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, while counseling or psychotherapy guides you through addressing emotional challenges.

As with any surgical procedure, brain surgery carries inherent risks and potential side effects. These may include infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding healthy brain tissue. The specific risks also depend on the tumor's location and the nearby structures.

Short-term side effects can include confusion, dizziness, brain swelling, difficulty speaking, difficulty walking, and headaches. On the other hand, long-term side effects might encompass visual changes, weakness in arms and legs, behavioral changes, and memory loss.

These tips may help you achieve a faster and smoother recovery. Still, it’s best to consult your neurosurgeon to receive the most personalized advice.

Get Sound Sleep

Quality sleep is crucial for recovery, as it helps maintain the pathways in the brain supporting learning, memory, concentration, and quick responses. It gives the brain the time to recover and restore its function. 

Engage in Positive, Cognitively Stimulating Activities

Activities that challenge your brain, such as memory games, puzzles, painting, yoga, and meditation, can aid recovery. These give your brain a nice exercise, improving memory and cognitive abilities.

Know What to Eat and What to Avoid

Nutrition plays a vital role in speeding up the recovery time for brain tumor surgery. A healthy, nutrient-rich diet can fuel your body and brain during the healing process. However, it’s equally vital that you know what foods to avoid, like alcohol and foods high in sugar and trans fats, as they can increase inflammation and risk of seizures.

Your recovery journey will be unique, influenced by the type of tumor, the surgery performed, your rehabilitation program, and your overall age/health. As such, it's crucial that you seek a second opinion from an experienced neurosurgeon before moving forward with your surgery. The second opinion can provide you with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions about your treatment.

As an internationally recognized and experienced neurosurgeon, Dr. Aaron Cohen-Gadol, has extensive experience in brain tumor surgery. With thousands of successful surgeries and expertise in complex cases, Dr. Cohen can offer invaluable second opinions to patients facing brain surgery. His knowledge and guidance can help you understand your options, what your recovery process can look like, and how you can return to your normal life as soon as possible.

In the journey toward recovery, it helps to remember that you're not alone. Request a second opinion from Dr. Cohen today and look forward to a brighter, healthier future.

• National Brain Tumor Society
• American Brain Tumor Association
• Brain Tumor Foundation
• Children's Brain Tumor Foundation
• Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation
• Glioblastoma Foundation