Bloated after diagnostic laparoscopy

[ljdb85]

Hi,

One week ago I had Laparocopy surgery, they didn't do anything so I just have two wounds. One below my belly button and one inside. I have now taken off my bandage from the one below but have kept the belly button covered, not sure how long to keep this covered for? However, the main problem now is the swollen belly, does anyone else have this? And how long did yours last? I am very uncomfortable and don't fit into any of my clothes.

Thanks...

[MMary-Moderator]

Hi,

I am sorry to hear you are uncomfortable after your surgery.

You might find some useful information in our laparoscopy information pack: endometriosis-uk.org/sites/...

I have had 3 laps now and after everyone I was also bloated.

If you have any concern at all do contact your GP or hospital. You may have been given a telephone number to ring in your discharge information? They should be able to advise regarding your dressings as well.

Best Wishes,

M Mary, Endometriosis UK

[ljdb85 in reply to MMary-Moderator]

How long did your bloating last? It feels like my skin is stretched to its limits right now.

Getting an appointment with my GP is quite rare so I thought I would try this page first.

I was given a number but unfortunately it is just to the reception and I am not sure how good they will be, I may give this a shot on Monday though.

Thank you 😊

[Lilloise]

You will probably be bloated for quite a while but that's usually normal. I couldn't wear anything with a waistband for about 2 weeks. Wore jeans after about 3 weeks.

I would think you can take off the dressing on your belly button now - I took mine off after about 3 days. Belly buttons take ages to heal because of their shape and the fact they get moist quite easily. They need to be out in the air and dry to heal properly. I find warm salt water helps and also using a cotton bud to gently dry inside the belly button after a shower X

[ljdb85 in reply to Lilloise]

Thank you, that's definitely made me feel a little better. Don't want to be feeling like this forever!

I will try the salt water too, thanks 😊

[L1nz86]

I was bloated like this for about 10-12 days. Finally got back into my jeans about 2 weeks after and I'm currently 3 weeks post op and feel back to normal again x

[ljdb85 in reply to L1nz86]

Thank you ☺️ and glad you're feeling much better now x

[Emmyeve]

Yes of course! You sound as impatient as I am 😂😂 it will take couple months to fully go down. Clean anti inflammatory diet will speed up the process. I have excision surgery 5 weeks ago & I can get my jeans zipped up but not buttoned. Your swelling should be less though as wasn’t excision. Relax & get some rest to assist then healing. Change your dressing on belly button & when it looks somewhat healed over take it off and get some air to it. Your tummy will go back to normal don’t worry x

[ljdb85]

Thank you, I am definitely inpatient lol. I just want to feel better already lol x