Q about Da Vinci

Am I going to have the "swelly belly" problem with the Da Vinci procedure? If so, I'm gonna have to buy some loose pants for work so I'd better be prepared.

Also, how long does the "swelly belly" usually last?

I don't know about swelly belly as far as it goes with DaVinci and hope someone can come along soon who has had the experience.

As far as loose pants, are you going in with large fibroids or tumors? I had a TAH but found my pants were all more loose after the surgery since my tummy wasn't extended. By the end of the day they fit perfect (granted they are sweats, but my jeans and other pants are the same, just can't wear them as long...not sure if because of TAH or what).

Some women have little to no swelly belly.

I hope someone can help you a little more and hope that you have an uneventful surgery and awesome recovery!

Hugs,
Buzylady

I had the DaVinci surgery and did experience swelly belly for 1-2 months after..not sure why...I bought some drawstring, maternity..lol..cargo pants in Target that were very comfortable for me.

I still have swelly belly after my daVinci. But, I was not exercising at all before my surgery and I was 57 at the time of my surgery.

The best remedy for me is exercise. I HATE EXERCISE so I have only begun an exercise routine in the last few days. I would encourage you to begin exercising as soon as your doctor gives the okay. Starting slowly is better than not starting at all! Even though I have to push myself because my energy level is still low, I feel so much better afterward and I can see the swelly belly is a lot less.

For my return to work, I bought dresses one size larger and pants in the same size, but made of knit and with an all-elastic waist.

Best wishes to you. I had a very positive experience with the daVinci.

Oooh, I thought I wasn't supposed to get a swelly belly w/DV? How swelly does it get? I generally exercise at least 5 times a week and I am already afraid of packing on pounds since I won't be able to exercise for so long? Any ideas if it is still 6 weeks for exercise with daVinci?
Thanks for the support!

LibraryDiva, my doctor released me without any restrictions two weeks after my daVinci. I specifically asked him if I could exercise on the treadmill and he said "yes." My energy level was not very high, though. I would still encourage you to start back gradually - I think the movement is the important thing, more important early in recovery than the intensity or length of the workout.

	Quote:
Originally Posted by LibraryDiva:o) Oooh, I thought I wasn't supposed to get a swelly belly w/DV? How swelly does it get? I generally exercise at least 5 times a week and I am already afraid of packing on pounds since I won't be able to exercise for so long? Any ideas if it is still 6 weeks for exercise with daVinci? Thanks for the support!

If you are a regular excerciser, you may have better luck. I would think there would still be swelling due to the trauma in the area, even though it is a much less invasive surgery. I had a 10-12 lb weight gain the first few weeks due to intravenous fluids...but, remember it is temporary and it will go away. I would worry about healing rather than excercise, I am sure your body will bounce right back! Good luck