Blood clots also can form in veins closer to the skin's surface. However, these clots won't break off and cause PE. Many factors determine your risk five to 10 days after surgery. With today's shorter hospital stays, that's most likely when you're recovering at home and away from the watchful eye of your health care providers. Therefore, it's vital that life-saving DVT prevention doesn't end at the time of discharge after surgery - but continues at the home throughout your most vulnerable days. Your physician can prescribe DVT prevention that you can use at home, including both mechanical and pharmacological prophylaxis.