I had a similar surgery with the same incisions, and I was still not quite myself after one week. I found driving still a problem after one week, as turning to look towards the rear for reversing the car was dificult. I felt more 'stiff' than sore, but it was still a problem. Also, have a selection of baggy clothing available. Due to the post op soreness and mild swelling, and later the healing incisions, you will not want clothing rubbing tightly against your belly.
I am a bridesmaid at my brothers wedding 4 weeks after my laparotomy. My futer sister in law sent the damn dress to me last week some gold spangly number. I just looked at it in horror twiggy would have a job squeezing her little butt into this thing. I wonder if my brother would ever forgive me if I turned up in teddy nightshirt with toweling dressing gown and greasy hair
Anna x
I had the same surgery with the same cuts, and the belly button one is actually the worst. It's not at your belly button.... it's IN your belly button! The first day or so, you're only going to wake up, eat, and fall asleep. It's mainly ache and soreness, not active pain. Your belly will be swollen, and you're going to want soft shorts or sleep pants or something. You won't really be able to bend, either. Don't even attempt stairs for the first two or so days... you won't be able to do it. So if your bedroom's upstairs (like mine is), plan on sleeping on the couch.
By the end of 4-5 days, you're still tired, but much better. I had sx on a Wed, and had to drive myself to work on Monday. I just had to plan the pain pills around the driving. I brought a small pillow along for my seat belt (my car has one of the belts that's both shoulder and lap, and having the lap belt press on your stomach is really uncomfortable). Just stuffed the little pillow in front of the stomach, and it was better.
Keep taking stool softeners for a few days after sx.... straining is NOT fun, and hurts alot.
Keep us posted!
~Marianne