It’s normal to feel discomfort and pain after surgery, you may also feel bruised, swollen and bloated, you may even feel sick or vomit. Nausea and vomiting is usually an effect of the anaesthetic and medications given during surgery and this usually settles within a couple of days. Pain, bruising and swelling can last longer, remember the body has been through a trauma, wounds need to heal and swelling and bruising all forms part of the healing process.
Wounds/incisions may be painful to touch, you may also experience period like pains and some vaginal bleeding. Pain and discomfort can be treated with painkillers. And sickness can be treated with anti-sickness medication.
During laparoscopic surgery the abdomen is filled with carbon dioxide gas, this is to separate the organs and tissues allowing the surgeon to have a clearer view. The gas is removed once the surgery is complete however, some gas can remain, this can cause bloating and stitch like pain/discomfort which is usually felt in the ribs and shoulders. A surgical fluid may also be used during the operation, this fluid aims to reduce the development of surgical adhesions, this can also cause swelling. Over time the fluid and gas will be absorbed by the body and the swelling will reduce.
Although you should start to feel better within two weeks of surgery, depending on the type of surgery it may take up to 8 weeks to make a full recovery.
At home, you should be able to get up and about and gradually return to doing your normal activities. You may feel more tired than normal, this should improve as you recover. Avoid doing too much too soon, listen to what your body tells you. Start with walking in the first few days and then build up your distance before starting to exercise. You should avoid any heavy lifting for 6 weeks after your surgery.
You should not drive until you are able to look over your shoulder and perform an emergency stop without it causing any pain. Please check with your insurance company their conditions for driving after an operation.
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