Swelly Belly????

I've seen many topics on swelly belly - but was wondering if this only happens to those who have abdominal surgery. I'm scheduled to have LAVH in June and was wondering if I really need to invest in all those drawstring pants and larger underwear. Will it happen to me too???

Hi. I had my LAVH on March 21st, six weeks ago. I definitely had swelly belly, and continue even now to have swelling on days where I am very active. Those first few weeks I really noticed the swelling in the evening. Ice packs on the tummy work really well to reduce swelling. I am now wearing my jeans to work, but usually put on a pair of loose sweats as soon as I get home at night. I am told this can continue for several months.

Good luck to you with your surgery. You will want very loose clothing (pajamas, night gowns) for the first week as you probably won't be up to doing much of anything. Then you'll want some loose elastic or drawstring pants for the next couple weeks after that. Best wishes.

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Jo

An LAVH is still abdominal surgery. You may not have a big incision on the outside but the cutting on the inside is identical in every case. Expect to have swelly belly. I had it after having my gallbladder removed laparoscopically. I don't know when I'll be able to wear jeans again. I've been wearing stretchy pants and nightshirts since surgery.