What can I expect after a laparotomy?

[rosemyst21]

Hi there,
I'm currently 18 and went to the ER two weeks ago for severe back pain. It turns out it was a kidney infection, but they also found a dermoid cyst on my left ovary during the CT scan. I just had it removed on the 31st of January via a laparotomy. They also took out my left ovary and tube during the procedure because the cyst was 7.5cm in diameter. I'm just wondering if anyone else has had this procedure and what to expect for recovery. Spent a night in the hospital with a morphine drip and a catheter, and now I'm finally home. I had horrible stomach pains, gas, nausea, and cramping for the first 4-5 days and was unable to have a bowel movement.

It's day 6 and I finally was able to have a bowel movement ( I don't think I was ever so excited to poop in my whole life! ) Currently my stomach muscles are just very sore and it's painful to move about. I was wondering how long this usually has lasted for people and when they were able to resume normal activities (work, etc) fairly comfortably.

Any advice or posting similar experiences would be greatly appreciated =)

[chelan3]

Hi, sorry you had to have such a big surgery.  A laprotomy can take a lot out of you.  As the others have said it usually takes about 6-8 weeks before a dr will give you the all clear to go back to work and for you to feel normal.  You may feel better sooner, BUT don't forget that you had a big surgery.  They do a lot of internal cuts and those need to heal too and that's why you need to take it easy for 6-8 weeks.  The no lifting thing is real important - you don't want to tear your internal stitches!  Just take it easy, relax and heal well.  I'm glad your surgery turned out well.  
Take care.
Debbie

[gma718]

I had a total hysterectomy almost 9 months ago..it took me about 7 weeks to feel better but than I had many complications..but I am still tired and have good and bad days..also you do not need any hormone replacement so you should bounce back pretty quick average is 4-6 weeks...but do not over exert yourself at all...Just relax and take it easy. Gia :)

[cirella]

Hi, Sorry you had to go through that at such a young age!  

My recovery was about 8 weeks.  I had a cyst and ovary removed using laparoscopy.  I tried doing "normal" things like walking on the treadmill or shopping and found that my body would let me know when to stop. I'd say really listen to your body.  The better you recover up front will help you down the road, meaning don't push it.  Don't lift anything over 10lbs.  You're young and will probably bounce right back.  

Take care,
Lori

[hopeshell]

Hi there,

Glad to hear you made it through surgery well.  The road to recovery is kind of long.  You shouldn't do any normal activities until your dr. clears you - usually at 6-8 weeks.  You will most likely be able to go back to work and do routine daily activities again.  Even then, try to avoid heavy lifting and overdoing it.  I am six months out of surgery and still don't have the stamina I used to have.   Since you are young you will probably bounce back faster than most.

Just a word of warning...sex may be painful when you get th first clear.  You won't have the same complications from complete lack of hormones as those of us with a TAHBSO but you may find that it will take some time for your other ovary to get all back to normal with your hormones.  Just give yourself time.  Hope you continue to feel better!

Shelly