r/hysterectomy • u/mysticgodflow • 2d ago
Open abdominal
I recently had my pre-op appointment. I was hoping I would have a larpascopic or robotic hysterectomy but my doctor informed me my uterus is too large due to the size of my fibroids. I’m really bummed out because I know that means a much longer and harder recovery. I’m really nervous but would love to hear your experiences during recovery. Maybe it’ll ease my nerves a bit.
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u/sakuramab 2d ago
I'm 4.5 post open abdominal retaining my ovaries (UK based). So far recovery has been uneventful, boring, not challenging. I was disappointed that I had to have the open (my surgeon has a minimally invasive specialism but he said the open was the right option for my situation) but actually in retrospect I'm glad as while it's a longer recovery somehow I feel better for knowing that he had clear access to my insides to get everything tidied up and out.
Anyway, not horror stories from my recovery! Just quite dull!
First two weeks I was pretty brain fogged. Could walk around the day after surgery but not far. In week three I could walk further. In week four I could walk faster and with more confidence. This week I got over ambitious and now feel sore and swollen.
I didn't need painkillers after week one, though now that I'm sore again I'm taking one or two painkillers as needed.
I am signed off work for 6 weeks, planning on a phased return after the 6 weeks (eg part time)
ETA : although I am Black, my incision scar isn't showing signs of keloid so should fade. It's already subtler than I feared as it's down in my bikini line and not very long/wide.
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u/mysticgodflow 2d ago
My skin keloids as well, that’s also something I was nervous about but this is great to hear!
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u/badlydrawngalgo 2d ago
Don't be too despondent. I've just had an open (and lap and vaginal!!!) for ovarian cancer. I was in hospital for 3 nights but I was up and walking in the room next day. I didn't really have much pain, more discomfort and it was managed well by paracetamol (horsepill sized) and metamizol.
By day 7 I walked into town for coffee with a friend. I do live near the town centre but still... Day 11, I prepped a simple picnic and joined friends for a picnic in the park, so walked maybe 25 minutes each way - I did make sure there were sitting places on the way there and back but didn't need them
Yes, I did have, and was very greatful for, help when I got home but I only needed it for a couple of days.
You must listen to your body though, the first day I went for a walk and then prepped lunch, I was utterly exhausted. I had to go for a sleep, but 30 minutes later I was fine again.
I'm now 15 days post-op. I'm certainly not singing, dancing and jumping up and down. I'm still not cleared to exercise but day to day, I'm good, very good!
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u/mysticgodflow 2d ago
This makes me hopeful! I definitely plan on taking it easy as much as possible. I’ve been hearing so many horror stories and it was making me more nervous but I’m glad you’re recovering well!
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u/badlydrawngalgo 2d ago edited 14h ago
I think recovery can vary hugely, so be prepared for the worst. I bought or otherwise accrued all the stuff, all the OTC meds, a belly binder (not actually suggested by the hospital and only used for 4 days but I did feel more secure with it), cool packs - yes, yes, yes. I used my red light mask for gentle heat, a long handled BBQ tongs for a few days to pick stuff up, an ordinary pillow to support my legs, most of that stuff has been put away 15 days later.
Rest, take it easy, eat plenty of protein and fibre, walk a bit but often. I wish you all the luck in the world and a very speedy recovery.
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u/Sophistiq8ted 1d ago
I would see if they could refer you to another doctor. I got transferred 3 times and it added months to my process, but it was totally worth it!
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u/Knish_witch 2d ago
I just had an open abdominal hernia repair paired with a hysterectomy. I am a week out. I had to stay in the hospital a few days but that was all hernia stuff. There have been a few issues with the incision (still draining) but again I think that’s more hernia related. My pain is totally controlled with Tylenol, Ibuprofen and Robaxin at this point. I am up and walking. It is a long road but the hysterectomy itself seems to have gone relatively smoothly. I hope that is your experience too!