Long term post op recovery
Posted , 6 users are following.
I had a total hysterectomy and appendix removed due to having an ovarian cyst the size of a watermelon. It was not cancer. My incision is from my sternum to my pubic area. I had this op 8 weeks ago and I'm still experiencing a lot of discomfort in my abdomen. Has anyone had an incision this big who can tell me how long their healing process took? I'm supposed to return to my very physical job in 3 days. I don't think I'm going to make it. I still walk hunched over because of discomfort. Can someone tell me if this is normal?? The only thing the surgeon says is that it was a big surgery. I already know that much!
1 like, 3 replies
kimikim deb41933
Posted
You should be feeling a lot more comfortable...I had a full hysterectomy and massive ovarian mass removed as well as kidney stones and stent 5 days ago, it was all done laprascopically!!! I was off pain relief on day 2 and have absolutely no pain or discomfort. I had a laparotomy 3 years ago for removal of cyst and the recovery was so much longer, I was sore for 2 months. You have had a large incision so your healing could take some time but you shouldn't be hunched over...I would talk to your surgeon about this as you still seem really uncomfortable. Wishing you all the best. (RN)
cgcr60 deb41933
Posted
Hi
I had a cyst the size of a watermelon as well and had to be cut nearly hip to hip to have it removed. The cyst had wrapped around my tubes causing me to be rushed to hospital. Like you my recovery took longer than expected. I didn't go back to work for 3 months. I am generally good at recovery but I had no choose after this op but to take it easy. It's been 7 months now and I am back at gym and doing good. Take it easy if you can and don't rush back to work if that is possible.
Fljack1066 deb41933
Posted
Sounds like your making progress but it is slow, I had a similar op in January and didn't go back to my desk job until the end of April. I couldn't believe how long recovery took, I had an ovarian cyst removed along with some extensive adhesions. If I'm honest I still get the odd pain now, especially if I've been doing brisk walking, although I have only just started to notice this more. Not sure if it's because I've recently been away and walked more or whether it's just scar tissue getting thicker and adhesions building up again.
It was about 6 months post op before I felt comfortable laying on my stomach again. (My scar goes from above belly button right down to previous c scar and additional laparotomy)
I only returned to doing yoga after 6 months.
Don't rush your recovery, it really does take a while. I certainly was not in a fit state to return to work at 8 weeks, I couldn't even fit in my regular clothes still!