Post-Laparoscopic Surgery Concerns: Pain and Wound Care Tips - Surgery

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After undergoing laparoscopic surgery, particularly for conditions such as uterine fibroids, it is not uncommon to experience some discomfort or pain around the incision sites as part of the healing process. Your concerns about the pain around your navel incision, especially after a period of feeling well, are valid and warrant a closer look.

1. Pain and Hardness Around the Incision: The sudden onset of pain and a feeling of hardness around the navel incision could be attributed to several factors. It is possible that you may have engaged in activities that put strain on the abdominal muscles, especially if you returned to work just two weeks post-surgery. Laparoscopic surgery, while minimally invasive, still involves cutting through layers of tissue, and the healing process can take time. The feeling of hardness could be due to scar tissue formation or inflammation in the area. As your body heals, it is common to experience fluctuations in pain levels, and this can be exacerbated by physical activity.

2. Normalcy of Symptoms: In the absence of redness, swelling, or discharge from the incision, the symptoms you describe may be within the realm of normal post-operative recovery. However, if the pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, increased swelling, or discharge, it would be prudent to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

3. Follow-Up Appointment: Given your recent increase in pain and the fact that you have resumed work, it may be beneficial to schedule a follow-up appointment with your surgeon. They can assess the healing process of your incisions and determine if any further intervention is necessary. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to post-operative care.

4. Care for the Incisions: Since you mentioned that two of your smaller incision sites have formed scabs and the navel incision still has some sutures, it’s important to keep the area clean and dry. If the tissue glue is coming off, that is generally a good sign, as it indicates that the healing process is progressing. You do not need to apply any additional dressings unless advised by your doctor. If the sutures are absorbable, they will dissolve on their own, and you should not attempt to remove them.

5. Activity Restrictions: It is advisable to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for at least 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery, as this can strain your healing incisions and abdominal muscles. If you experience pain during certain movements or activities, it is a signal from your body to take it easy. Gradually increasing your activity level while listening to your body is key to a successful recovery.

6. Signs to Watch For: Keep an eye out for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge from the incision sites. Additionally, if you experience any systemic symptoms like fever or chills, seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, while some discomfort post-laparoscopic surgery is normal, especially after returning to work, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you have concerns about the pain or the healing process, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance and reassurance. Your recovery is important, and ensuring that you are healing properly will help you return to your normal activities safely.