Laparoscopy recovery : Hi all, hope... - Endometriosis UK

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Laparoscopy recovery

JJS09 profile image
54 Replies

Hi all, hope everyone is well I’m just looking for a bit of advice around laparoscopy recovery, I finally have my date and with it only being one month away I need to book time off work. I’ve not been informed of the regular recovery time but I’ve researched and most websites say 1 week.

I’m just wondering how long other people have taken off work? I work in hospitality and I’m a dancer so it requires a lot of standing, walking and lifting heavy stock/ equipment. I just don’t feel like one week is a lot of time.

Thank you in advance for any replies

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JJS09 profile image
JJS09
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54 Replies
Pixie_Pumpin35 profile image
Pixie_Pumpin35

Hello JJS09

I hope you’re well ☺️

Is your laparoscopy for diagnostic purposes or endometriosis removal? xx

JJS09 profile image
JJS09 in reply to Pixie_Pumpin35

Diagnostic but the doctor did say if they found it they would try and get rid of it so I guess I won’t know until I wake up? Xx

Sarah0107 profile image
Sarah0107 in reply to JJS09

Hello!! I had the exact same thing done in June. I have 2 jobs, one is a desk job that I went back to after 2 weeks. The other is a fitness instructor, I took 6 weeks off this job and really did need it to be honest!! Hope yours goes well xx

emcar profile image
emcar

I had a laparoscopy for Fallopian tube removal for sterilization. I asked for a note at the hospital and they signed me off for 2 weeks. I work 2 jobs, one in an office and in a shop at the weekend. To be honest I could have gone back to my desk job after a week as I am sat down most of the day but I didn't feel ready to go back to my retail job after a week. I've only just returned to my retail work after 2 weeks off. I am still a little sore around my incisions and tired. My first shift in the shop yesterday was hard being on my feet all day and I felt I couldn't lift anything heavy and I've been advised not to lift anything heavy for 4-6 weeks. My stomach was quite sore last night once i returned home. I would say you maybe able to go back to work in hospitality after 2 weeks if you make your employer aware you may need more breaks or not to lift heavy items

JJS09 profile image
JJS09 in reply to emcar

Thank you I hope your feeling okay, that’s what I was thinking, also I’m not sure if you will know as I forgot to add it to the post but are you allowed to take anyone with you to the hospital when you go for a laparoscopy xx

emcar profile image
emcar in reply to JJS09

My hospital said no one to stay with you as I was on a day ward and I didn't take anyone with me. To be fair other people did have someone with them and the nurses didn't bother so I was a bit annoyed. I did have to have someone pick me up and take me home though due to the general anesthetic and have someone at home with me for 24 hours

JJS09 profile image
JJS09 in reply to emcar

Okay thank you I was wanting my partner to come along with me mainly for company

emcar profile image
emcar in reply to JJS09

I would ask the hospital what their policy as I know some are different and it does help pass the time as you do wait around a lot! I took a book to read but to be honest I was that nervous I couldn't concentrate. I found listening to music better as I didn't need to concentrate as much!

Lucie2015 profile image
Lucie2015

Hello. I’ve had 2 laps over the past 7 years to have ovarian cysts removed and I went back to work after 2 weeks for both of them. I was actually signed off for 6 weeks last year after the second one, but needed to go back so I got signed back on but that was only because I have a desk job. I was actually ok pain wise, I was just very tired after work. I imagine you will need longer than 2 weeks given the nature of your job. You can get the initial sick note after the operation from the hospital and then visit your GP and ask them to extend the sick note if you are not ready to go back. It might be a quick recovery if the lap is just for diagnostic purposes and nothing is found. I’m having endometriosis removed this week and hoping the recovery will be the same as the last two but worried that it won’t. It’s so hard not knowing exactly what is going to happen and what the recovery will be like. I hope your operation goes well xx

JJS09 profile image
JJS09 in reply to Lucie2015

Thank you, hopefully I have an easy recovery, and I hope the same for yourself, do you just ask for the sick note when you get discharged? I’ve never had to do anything like this before 🙈 xx

Lucie2015 profile image
Lucie2015 in reply to JJS09

I went for my pre-op last week and they asked if I would need one. If they don’t ask you, then mention it before you are discharged. I forgot last time as I wasn’t feeling great. I phoned the ward the next day and they sent one through the post. X

JJS09 profile image
JJS09 in reply to Lucie2015

Great thank you, I’ll add that to my list of questions to ask in my pre op otherwise I will forget x

Lucie2015 profile image
Lucie2015 in reply to JJS09

They will talk to you about recovery times at your pre-op. Hope everything goes well for you x

JJS09 profile image
JJS09 in reply to Lucie2015

Thank you I hope everything goes well for you also x

Immy1992 profile image
Immy1992 in reply to Lucie2015

Hiya iv just had endo removed stage 4 I'm a week into recovery now can't wait to go back to work normal activities like exercise, driving, bathing , be prepared as it's hard I havnt been out anywhere since I got home, I discharged myself the day after surgery due to the nurse not giving me any pain relief for 7 hours and she had been very rude to me, when I asked for help ...

Anyway I'm still extremely tired , can't do a lot, still sore , constipated and had sickness, nausea and fever and hot flushes from my deceptyl injection still happening daily . This is my experience so far. Just get prepared for at least a week indoors , they say 6-8 weeks recovery, I hope not.

It all depends on the extent of your surgery I guess, do you know how much is being removed from which areas, if you don't mind sharing info?

Also Good luck x

JJS09 profile image
JJS09 in reply to Immy1992

At this point I’m unsure as its diagnostic but they said they will remove whatever they can, so I won’t know until I wake up from surgery x

Cupcake1617 profile image
Cupcake1617

I was told, investigation itself is around 1 weeks and a week or so for any work done (depending on what’s done). Everyone is so different and I kinda never think you know how you feel until you go back to work. Hope all goes well x

JJS09 profile image
JJS09 in reply to Cupcake1617

Thank you, I’ll double check with the hospital with what they recommend and I guess I can judge when I get home if I think I can go back to work x

Cupcake1617 profile image
Cupcake1617 in reply to JJS09

Your work might also allow a phased return, could be worth speaking to them too x

JJS09 profile image
JJS09 in reply to Cupcake1617

Hopefully I might just ask if I can work shorter shifts to begin with then build it up x

Lofty1589 profile image
Lofty1589

I had a diagnostic lap at the start of June. They signed me off for two weeks - I was already signed off sick but when I’d researched it etc, it is very common for you to be signed off for 2 weeks as you need that time to heal - even if the procedure is only diagnostic. Mine was like that and even though I went back to work after 2 weeks (I had no choice unless I wanted to be dismissed) you are healing for a while as everything is moved around during the op.

Good luck with it all xx

Mochapoise profile image
Mochapoise

2 weeks it’s enough for recovery, l had mine 3months ago and was back to work after 2weeks

Hollie2018 profile image
Hollie2018

Hiya,

I have stage 4 and I took 6 weeks off! Sounds a lot compared to everyone else but I'm a therapist and would bleed doing any heavy lifting of patients etc!

Hope it goes well x

Cyprus92 profile image
Cyprus92

I had small amount removed and they signed me off for 4 weeks. Even though i only do a desk job. I wouldn't of been able to go back any sooner either. 3 months on and im still on phased return x

Nicole1990 profile image
Nicole1990

Hi there,

Currently in my 5th day post laparoscopic procedure.

Every surgery is specific to the individual.

I planned to take 5. As I am an optimist and need to practice what I preach in regards to looking after ones self. If you need to book sick leave in advance please give yourself at least a week. Extend if you need.

Also listen to your body. Strenuous activity is not recommended. For approx 2 to 3 weeks can be light... then 3 to 6 moderate. 6 onwards you may start to feel like yourself. Be mindful of pain relief masking your healing journey. Please heal yourself well as you can have ongoing complications if you do not look after yourself. The C02 gas is a pain for 3days at least and can be quite uncomfortable. I found peppermint tea useful and stay away from carbonated beverages if possible.

Let me know if you have any questions. Take care and all the best :)

JJS09 profile image
JJS09 in reply to Nicole1990

Thank you for your reply I know this may be stupid but I’m meant to be going to Disneyland Paris three weeks after my operation, is it unrealistic to be going at that point? I will double check at my pre op but by that point it would be too late to cancel and I don’t want to disappoint my friends who I’m meant to be visiting ☺️

Mparstoy profile image
Mparstoy in reply to JJS09

If you are going to go to Disney, try getting a wheel chair!

Nicole1990 profile image
Nicole1990 in reply to JJS09

Please be aware of thromboembolism xx

You may need to take some compression stockings with you as well due to the operation you may be at more risk while flying. That's if you are flying because I do not know here you live ha! Also do some exercises to help with circulation on your flight. I agree you may need a wheel chair if there is a lot of walking to be honest you will probably get really exhausted and might faint x

woodie1 profile image
woodie1

Hi, I agree about the two week estimate. It takes you one week just to deal with all the side effects of the general anaesthetic (never mind the healing of endometriosis if it was treated!). Just read this quickly, but please please make sure you have someone with you on the day and if your hospital is being difficult about it, push for it. It will be so worth it. I had my laparoscopy a week ago and honestly could not have done it without my partner! For most people, it’s a very nerve racking and emotional experience and having my partner there to ask questions to the doctors and take notes has been invaluable as I now have a record of everything that was discussed with each optician / surgeon etc - it’s proven to be so helpful as the day after the surgery I barely remembered any of it! I was surprised when my consultant came in to see me about 15 mins after the op, I was still pretty drowsy so having somebody there with a prepared list of questions is really important (both pre-op and post-op). Also, do as much research as you possibly can before your op, the more I knew about the op and endo, the better and more relaxed I felt on the day. Hope it all goes well for you. Xx

JJS09 profile image
JJS09 in reply to woodie1

Thank you I’ll make sure I get my partner to take notes xx

SarahK73 profile image
SarahK73

A week is about right I’ve had 15 of them so I should know! Do take it easy don’t rush back, it depends how active you job is.

I too am waiting for my surgery date, I have adhesions from previous surgery attached to my caecum and I am in a lot of pain, I have been in hospital twice for a week in the last 3 months due to compacted stool as my digestive system is not working properly. I am on a low residue diet, low dose anti depressants for pain relief, nerve blockers and 20 mg butec pain patches, so hopefully will get a date soon.

I had a hysterectomy in December 18 and stupidly thought my days in hospital and surgery were over !!

Stay well

Sarah xx

JJS09 profile image
JJS09 in reply to SarahK73

Thank you for your reply, I’m sorry you’re still in pain hopefully everything will be sorted soon for you xx

Immy1992 profile image
Immy1992 in reply to SarahK73

Oh my what is a compacted stool did the lapro or endo bring this on do you know ? As I've just had stage 4 removed last week am recovering and am so constipated kind of went today and it was scary like a couple black rocks coming out after 30 mins of painfull pushing, is this similar to You?

What is this I havnt took pain relief for 2 days now and only had oramorph for 4 days prior.

XxX

SarahK73 profile image
SarahK73 in reply to Immy1992

It was due to pain meds used post op for my hysterectomy.plus severe adhesions on my colon.

It’s when stool gets stuck in colon and it becomes over active and you get severe pain and inflammation in your abdomen

I’m on laxatives twice a, day mild antidepressant for pain relief, nerve blockers and pain relief patches called Butec. All until a further laparoscopy can remove the adhesions that are stopping my colon from working!

Immy1992 profile image
Immy1992 in reply to SarahK73

I see sorrry to hear that I hope they sort this out properly.

It is crazy how much endo can affect your body to function in so many different ways depending where and how deep it is.

I am recovering still not doing great I cricked my neck As well sleeping funny so am immobile in the neck too now .

I'm actually getting depressed but I'm so tired to do anything about it hoping it will all pass eventually

SarahK73 profile image
SarahK73 in reply to Immy1992

Sorry to hear that hang in there, it will get better. I find mindful meditation helps for pain control and time out from the condition xxx I started with the headspace app many years ago after time in hospital following the loss of my precious Mo to suicide 😥xx

Immy1992 profile image
Immy1992 in reply to SarahK73

Yea, I think I will try this out, thankyou for your advice and sharing. Yea I just have to ride this out unfortunately.

Here for you if you ever need to chat xxx

SarahK73 profile image
SarahK73 in reply to Immy1992

Thanks, you look after yourself xxx

I will take up your kind offer if I feel I need to xx

Alita88 profile image
Alita88

hello, you shouldn't be making any hard abdominal effort for at least a month. sometimes people feel great soon but in the inside the scars take longer to heal a everything is moist in there.

SimonWaverly profile image
SimonWaverly

Hi!

Recovery time depends on the individual. I had laparoscopic surgery 2 weeks ago & I'm still tender. If you have a desk job I’d say 2 weeks, if you’ve got a more manual job I’d say minimum 3-4 weeks. However this is just my experience, some people recover quicker than others. I hope this helps.

lorraine1981 profile image
lorraine1981

Hi glad you have a date. I was signed off by my doctor for 5 weeks and my stitches were still visable after 7 weeks. Lots of peppermint tea and chilling. As you will feel exhausted after the op. Good luck xxxx

Nicole1990 profile image
Nicole1990 in reply to lorraine1981

Peppermint tea was really helpful post surgery for me as well!

lorraine1981 profile image
lorraine1981 in reply to Nicole1990

I still drink it now. It helps

JJS09 profile image
JJS09 in reply to lorraine1981

Thank you for the tip I’ll make sure to stock up x

Faybee87 profile image
Faybee87

Congratulations on getting your date! I had mine in March and initially took off a week self-cert, then got signed off for 2 weeks, then signed off for another 2, and then went on a phased return over 2 weeks. I pushed to go back on a phased return at that point but my gp wanted me off a little longer. I think it's a how long is a piece of string kind of situation. There's no way I could've gone back any sooner and I work a desk job.

Catloving profile image
Catloving

Hi thanks for asking this question. I have a diagnosis laparoscopy early September and was wondering the same. I have my pre op next week and I’m starting to get scared!

JJS09 profile image
JJS09 in reply to Catloving

Same but I guess I’m kinda looking forward to it as well mainly for answers but I’m still nervous because I’ve had so many doctors tell me different things and diagnosis that I’m scared incase the don’t find anything.

Then I have to remind myself that debilitating pain to the point I can’t walk twice a month isn’t normal 😂

Hope all goes well for you keep me updated on how you get on x

Catloving profile image
Catloving in reply to JJS09

Yeh that’s true - I don’t know how I would feel if they don’t find it! I feel completely normal most of the time (I have mild pcos and on mini pill) so I think my symptoms are pretty mild compared to you. sometimes I think I don’t need the op and then I have days like today where I have an upset tummy and pain in my lower back and I think I can’t live like this! Hope your op goes well. I will keep you updated :) xx

JJS09 profile image
JJS09 in reply to Catloving

The pain is just relative to the person so it’s better to be safe and find out for definite than always wonder xx

Mparstoy profile image
Mparstoy

Hi! I am 25 days post lap. They found Endo on both ovaries, uterus, appendix (was removed), pelvic walls, pelvic floor, rectum. They also went into my bladder and uterus and performed a D&C and removed a polyp. After week 1 I was in a very painful place. I could do nothing on my own and could not sit. Week 2 I was more independent, still in a lot of pain, I could sit for 15 minutes. Week 3 I am still a little inflamed and the pain is like very mild cramps. I am still exhausted all the time. This has been my experience. When I read about women who are ready to work after a week, I am in awe. Clearly every body is not the same. Probably it also depends on what got done. I had a Stage 2 which is not deep infiltration Endo, so you would think it would take less time to recover. I would advise to take all the time that you can. You have an entire life time to work, what is the rush? I was also told in my post opp appointment that I should have taken the pain killers as directed and not attempt to work through the pain. Apparently working through the pain can lead you to heal at a slower pace because you are less inclined to move around.

I hope you surgery goes really well! With kindness!

Chloe1111 profile image
Chloe1111

Hey! I’m in a similar position to you, I have my first laparoscopy for diagnostic and possible removal of Endo booked for the 31st of August and have no idea what to expect. I also work in hospitality, so work requires a lot of lifting and standing... my doctor originally said I should be fine in a few days, but from what I’ve read online I’ve told work I initially may need two weeks off. That way both work and myself are prepared for a two week absence and if I recover quicker then I can go back to work.

I have my pre op assessment this Friday, and these are so of the big questions I have to ask! I also start my masters degree a week and a half later, so hopefully recovery won’t take too long! I can keep you updated on how long doc says for work after my pre op, as that may give you a clearer idea! I know it’s hard to try to predict a recovery time when so much of your job is physically demanding.

Hope all goes okay for you!

JJS09 profile image
JJS09 in reply to Chloe1111

Yeah that would be great I hope everything goes well for your laparoscopy xx

Chloe1111 profile image
Chloe1111 in reply to JJS09

Hey... so the nurse during my pre op said that I will be initially be signed off of work for two weeks following my op, but I could discuss this more with the doctor post op depending on how much work is actually done and then a gp can extend if needed. Sorry this hasn’t clarified anything too much but hope it helps a bit! X

JJS09 profile image
JJS09 in reply to Chloe1111

Thank you I’m definitely taking two weeks off and I’ll see how I get on x

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