Generally speaking, if there are no complications after rectal cancer surgery, patients can basically resume normal semi-liquid diet, independent underground activities, urination and defecation in about 6-7 days after surgery. Therefore, patients are usually discharged from the hospital at 6-7 days after surgery. However, it takes about 3-4 weeks after surgery to achieve a complete return to a normal diet and to regain very good strength. Some patients who need chemotherapy after surgery usually have to recover until about 3 weeks before starting.