Instructions
Post-Operative Laparoscopic
Frequently Asked Questions

When can I go back to work?
Whether you have had a laparoscopic hernia repair or your gallbladder removed, when you return to work is up to you! There are no restrictions after this type of surgery.You are free to resume your routine work or lifestyle activities based on how you feel after your surgery. There is little risk of "popping out the stitches" or "tearing something" with normal activity. Remember as you increase your activity after surgery soreness may increase as the body adjusts to becoming active again. The office will provide a work release based on your needs as long as it is within reason.

Can I shower/bathe?
After laparoscopic surgery you may remove the Band-Aids or surgical dressing and then shower or bathe. Band-Aids over the incisions can be replaced or remain off at your discretion. If clothing rubs against the incision replace the Band- Aids. We encourage showering or soaking in a bathtub as the heat of the water helps with post-operative pain. It is okay to allow soap to get on the incision.  That is part of keeping the incision clean. Although bathing and showering are allowed, we would caution you not to rub the incision directly for a few weeks.

What can I do to help the post-operative pain?
Remember that you have just had surgery so you will have some pain. It is impossible to eliminate the pain completely. You were sent home with pain pills which will help with the pain. Since an inflammatory process causes pain, taking an anti-inflammatory such as Advil or Ibuprofen is highly effective. We recommend taking three Advil tablets three times a day for three weeks (3, 3, and 3) unless otherwise instructed. If you have problems taking anti-inflammatories or if doing so causes stomach symptoms, please do not take them. Post-operative pain responds very well to the combined use of Advil, heating pads, warm showers or baths, and pain pills as prescribed. Remember that you must not drive when taking narcotic pain medication.

What should I do for constipation?
Surgery plus the use of anesthesia and narcotics all contribute to post-operative constipation. In most instances you are given a mild laxative to help with this at the time of discharge from the hospital. If you have not experienced a bowel movement within two days of surgery, take one ounce of Milk of Magnesia.  If this fails, try a Fleets enema or Dulcolax suppository.  If still no result, drink one bottle of Magnesium Citrate. These are all available without prescription.  If all these measures fail, contact our office.

What can I eat after my surgery?
Immediately after surgery it is more important to drink plenty of liquids to hydrate the body. This includes: tea, juices, water, Gatorade, and soda. Light food such as cereal, toast, sandwiches, and non-fried foods are best the initial 1-2 days after surgery.  Spicy, greasy, fried foods, raw veggies, and red meats should be avoided the first week. Alcohol must be avoided if taking pain medications.  Diabetics require special dietary considerations and should call their primary care provider.

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