Nervous for Birthday Hysterectomy (3/3) - Concerned about being an Overweight Patient

I have excessively heavy periods, exhaustion and other issues relating to things involving my gender, so I’m going to be having my surgery in about a month and a half.

I’m 35 but I’ve wanted this surgery since I was in my 20’s and this is the first time I’ve had doctors that listen to me.

Most of my trepidation comes from never having had this kind of surgery before, being Obese (scale at home fluctuates between 275-285, hospital scale adds like 10 lbs blech) and when I was younger, I was born with a collapsed lung (preemie) - which never developed into athsma or sleep apnea or anything. But the inversion has me nervous.

I don’t regret this choice and my nerves are not going to stop me. But I know so few plus sized folks that have done this, folks my age that have done this, or anyone who has had possible lung issues ?

Just looking for support.

Hi NeonEternity to HysterSisters!

I am so glad you found this site.

Obviously, tell your doctor and anesthesiologist about your lung condition. They may want to do more detailed analysis of your lungs.

It is not unusual for women who are overweight to have this surgery. Hopefully someone on this site who is overweight will see this post and respond with her experience. In the meantime, here is an article that may provide information:
Special Considerations for Overweight Hysterectomy Patients

Having a hysterectomy is such an overwhelming experience. Just know that you are not alone in any of this. We will be by your side throughout this process.

I am also plus sized and I had no complications at all. Do you have any specific questions I can answer?

	Quote:
Originally Posted by LaineyBob I am also plus sized and I had no complications at all. Do you have any specific questions I can answer?

Uh, anything to help with keeping the incisions clean when you’re out of surgery and like did you use a belly band?

	Quote:
Originally Posted by marestail Obviously, tell your doctor and anesthesiologist about your lung condition. They may want to do more detailed analysis of your lungs.

Yeah, I’ve been messaging the doctor, because I’ve had no breathing issues, like at all he thinks I should be alright but I will make sure to note this for the anesthesiologist

I had a TAH with a large vertical incision. My doctor put me in a belly band in post op, so that is how I woke up. For the most part I liked it and wore my belly binder at least three weeks post-op. My incision was closed with staple and it was covered with a waterproof dressing. I never saw my incision until two weeks post op when my doctor removed it to take out my staples.

Your doctor will give you instructions on how to keep the incision clean. Mine were to let water run over the incision, but not scrub. I could shower as soon as I came home, but no baths.

I am plus-sized (BMI 37) and didn't have an issue with my full hysterectomy. After surgery they had the head of my bed raised in recovery.

	Quote:
Originally Posted by NeonEternity I have excessively heavy periods, exhaustion and other issues relating to things involving my gender, so I’m going to be having my surgery in about a month and a half. I’m 35 but I’ve wanted this surgery since I was in my 20’s and this is the first time I’ve had doctors that listen to me. Most of my trepidation comes from never having had this kind of surgery before, being Obese (scale at home fluctuates between 275-285, hospital scale adds like 10 lbs blech) and when I was younger, I was born with a collapsed lung (preemie) - which never developed into athsma or sleep apnea or anything. But the inversion has me nervous. I don’t regret this choice and my nerves are not going to stop me. But I know so few plus sized folks that have done this, folks my age that have done this, or anyone who has had possible lung issues ? Just looking for support.

I was also nervous. My Primary Dr had to sign off that surgery would be safe. I had an echocardiogram also. My anesthesiologist met with me before and went over my records as well. I have high blood pressure & asthma as well so I was nervous. Dr’s felt it was safe and all went excellent ! Best of luck !

I am over weight as well & that has me a little nervous. My surgery is March 1st. And also my mom's birthday is 3/3... so I've been doing restorative yoga to help me stretch & relax & focus on my breathing. I just find the videos on YouTube & do 10-30 min and it has helped me release a ton of anxiety. Maybe it can help you too. Definitely let your anesthesiologist know about lungs. I have a disorder called Alpha 1 Antitrypson disorder and it can affect lungs and/or liver; just found out recently, and I'm supposed to see a lung specialist, so I'm on edge a little about that as well, but I've had surgeries before & have done fine, so I'm hoping for the same result. But again the yoga has really helped calm my nerves & anxiety. I hope my long response helped. Good luck!!! I'll be thinking of you on the 3rd.

	Quote:
Originally Posted by Crgbbns I was also nervous. My Primary Dr had to sign off that surgery would be safe. I had an echocardiogram also. My anesthesiologist met with me before and went over my records as well. I have high blood pressure & asthma as well so I was nervous. Dr’s felt it was safe and all went excellent ! Best of luck !

Thank you. I’m definitely ramping up in the nerves department as it gets closer. 4 weeks.