laparotomy recovery

[Pixiestarr]

Back home today from having my left ovary and cyst removed through laparotomy. Was in hospital a bit longer than expected due to no transport Christmas Eve and Day.
Doc says no signs of cancer which is a relief, he  is writing to me with full results but is not worried.
Surgery has gone pretty well and much as expected after clueing myself up on here.
The worst thing now is the feeling like a tight rubber band around the bikini line area where the cut was, and my belly is hugely swollen.
The staples were removed this morning but hasn't made much difference.
Can any other ladies out there who had the same surgery as me tell me how long this took to ease off.
I know we have to expect this kind of swelling but I am four foot 8 inches so i is very noticeable on someone of my size and it feels awful.
I am not overweight but have always had a flabby tummy and a tendency to bloat, however would be quite satisfied just to get back to normal!

[vonnedizzy]

hi, i had ectopic pregnancy and i had laparotomy. and my left tube was removed. its nearly four weeks now , and still in pain. i've been in and out off hospital but nothing could be done , i cant sleep at nite nor sleep on my left side or when im turning in my sleep the pain is just worse.  when i walk i feel my left ovary is pushing down and in so much pain. pls anyone who has been through this help explain this to me. how long would it take for me to heal better.  Evonne  

[vonnedizzy]

hi, i had ectopic pregnancy and i had laparotomy. and my left tube was removed. its nearly four weeks now , and still in pain. i've been in and out off hospital but nothing could be done , i cant sleep at nite nor sleep on my left side or when im turning in my sleep the pain is just worse.  when i walk i feel my left ovary is pushing down and in so much pain. pls anyone who has been through this help explain this to me. how long would it take for me to heal better.  Evonne  

[chloebowie]

I have the worst bruising after my surgery they cut both sides and my belly button it's been a few days and seems to get worse each day. I expected swelling and bruising but this seems a little abnormal, just wondering if anyone else has had something similar?

[hopeshell]

I am so glad you made it through surgery and all is benign! :)  It is too bad you had to spend Christmas in the hospital! :(   Your swelling will get better each day.  As you are able to drink more water and walk, you will notice the bloating subsides.  Everyone has a different recovery time in terms of swelling.  Some surgeries cause more trauma than others.  The scar itself takes years to turn white and become less noticable.  But, I noticed the swelling was much less at about three weeks post-op.  If you notice any redness, heat or extreme itchiness, be sure to call your doctor.  Infections do sometimes occur after surgeries and they can also cause swelling.  Best wishes for a speedy recovery!!!!

Shelly