Scheduled for surgery next week. - Any advice on what to expect?

[bahamabreeze68]

I'm scheduled to have a laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy early on Tuesday morning. It's 4cm, and causing a lot of pain. My stomach is bloated, and I've gained weight to the point my co-workers are whispering behind my back that I'm pregnant. I also have another cyst that is 1.5cm that the doctor says he will remove at the same time.

I'm so glad I found this doctor because the first doctor I went to suggested it was only PMS.

I need to know about the procedure and recovery process. Does the bloated tummy ever go away? Does your period return to normal? (My period eventually came today, but it is very, very light). I just want this thing gone so I can get on with my life. Hearing about other experiences would be helpful. Thanks for your support.

[fungirl1011]

I'm so glad you are home and that your surgery went well. Now make sure that you get plenty of rest! I'm glad toy were able to post and update us.

[bahamabreeze68]

Just wanted everyone to know that the surgery went well, and I am now recovering at home. Thanks for all your well wishes.

[ska4life1986]

i had emergancy surgry so i was glad i hadent time to dwell , i am glad to hear it looks benign , i just want to wish you well and a speedy recovery i will keep you in my thaugts on tuesday best of luck.

[bahamabreeze68]

Thanks for the insight. The unknown is always a bit scary. The doctor can tell you about the procedure, but someone who has been there can help with how to cope. I'm just glad to know there are others that have been through a similar situation.

I don't know what kind of cyst I have. The doctor just said it looks benign. When I inquired about the CA125 blood test, he added it to the before-surgery blood tests.

I have quite some off from work ahead. I'll keep you posted of my progress. I just want this to be over...

[Nt2L8]

Fungirl has covered it!  You will find from the various post that the symptoms vary and that after the surgery the pain is not that bad.  The bloating and gas is more bothersome than anything else.

[fungirl1011]

Hi and welcome to the forum.  Tuesday will be here before you know it and then you will be on your way to recovery.  Here are some things to expect/do to get ready for surgery and after surgery:

1.  You will have 3-4 small incisions (about 1" long).  You will probably be able to leave the hospital a few hours after surgery.
2.  You will need to stay ahead of your pain by taking your pain pills.  Once you let the pain get out of control it is very hard to get it back under control.  
3.  I would make sure that you have a fluffy pillow to hold against your stomach when you are getting up or sitting down.  It is also good to have it handy if you need to cough.
4.  You may want to make some meals ahead of time to put in the freezer.  Then when you are home all you need to do is pull it out of the freezer and stick it in the oven :-)
5.  You will be bloated after your surgery.  Partly from gas and partly just from the surgery itself.  The best think you can do for the gas it to walk (short walks around your house is good).  You can also take GasX.  
6.  You may notice some constipation.  You may want to keep Prune juice on hand.  This will help.
7.  You may want to get a few books or movies to have on had to keep you busy, as you will be spending a few days lounging on the couch.
8.  Make sure you have some stretchy pants to wear for a few days.  
9.  You will want some help at home for a few days ( a week would be better if possible).  

Ok, that is all I can think of right now.  I'm sure someone else will be along soon to fill in what I left out.  Do you know what kind of cyst you have?  Just know that you will get good support and advice here.  Keep us updated on how you are doing.