After your surgery is finished, you will be brought to the ICU where you will recover from surgery. Many patients are still asleep when they arrive in the ICU. Generally, most patients spend approximately 24 hours recovering in the ICU after surgery. Once you are stable enough to leave the ICU (usually after 24-48 hours), you will be transferred to the step-down unit, where you will continue your recovery until you are ready for discharge. Keep in mind that every surgery is different, and everyone recovers differently after surgery. Your stay in the ICU or in the hospital may be longer or shorter, depending on your surgical procedure and your recovery.