TAH: Newbie with odd question

Hello Hyster Sisters! Getting ready for my TAH on January 6th. Anyone know if I should prepare my body in any special way before surgery? My fibroid is pretty huge so they can't do Davinci. Should I be putting lotion on my abdomen to soften up the skin? Should I be trying to lose a couple pounds to make it easier to get at the fibroid? As I say these things, I feel like they are silly questions, but when I think about what they have have to do, it makes sense to me ! Any advice is appreciated!

Hi Wanda! Of course the better shape you are in, the better the chances for an easier recovery. That said, I had mine overweight and had an amazingly easy recovery. I wouldn't worry about the lotion, just mainly try to eat healthy up until them, and maybe get some exercise. Good luck!

Thank you so much, coughy16!

I had a TAH too but didn't do anything special prior to my surgery. I kept saying I was going to get in shape, but that didn't happen. Just try to stay active (stretching is always good), eat right and the time will fly by. Good luck!

Thanks, Sarrie!

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Originally Posted by Wandaz Hello Hyster Sisters! Getting ready for my TAH on January 6th. Anyone know if I should prepare my body in any special way before surgery? My fibroid is pretty huge so they can't do Davinci. Should I be putting lotion on my abdomen to soften up the skin? Should I be trying to lose a couple pounds to make it easier to get at the fibroid? As I say these things, I feel like they are silly questions, but when I think about what they have have to do, it makes sense to me ! Any advice is appreciated!

My uterus was cut into 3 pieces since the fibroids were so large and I had at least 6 of them. As far as preparing myself, the only thing I would suggest, is have your house really clean, unless uou have someone to do that for you. And just mentally prepare yourself for all the resting you will need to do. I am now beginning my 4th week, feeling really good and having a hard time not doing too much. But trust me when I say, your body will remind you when you start overdoing it a bit!!

Good Luck!

As I've seen in this forum, some hysterectomy patients are overweight, and it's never been a major issue. If you do want to lose some weight, two pounds per week is a reasonable rate that could have you down by as much as 8 pounds by your surgery date, which could yield some significant benefits. Be sure to include some strength training, because increasing your muscle mass will increase your metabolism; having a strong upper body will also benefit your recovery, by helping to give your abdominal muscles a well-needed rest. Also be sure to include some regular aerobic exercise, like walking, which will be your main form of exercise after your surgery; your anaesthesiologist will also question your aerobic fitness, to make sure the process will be safe for you. As for your diet, fill half your plate with non starchy vegetables, the remainder with a serving of carbs about the size of your cupped hand, and a palm-sized serving of protein, to ensure a proper balance of nutrients; this will help to improve your health, for your surgery and beyond it. Best wishes for a successful surgery and a smooth recovery!

Thank you, Kda2fly! Glad you are feeling good!

Thank you, Tiger_eye - wonderful tips for improving my health!