Swelling after Robotic Hysterectomy

Hi Avocado23

Am glad that you have had your surgery and that you are ok pain wise. 

I never particularly had any swelling myself apart from in the early days my tummy would look a bit puffy by the end of the day. it was generally when I had been doing more. It settled down on its own. 

With your lower abdomen swelling- just a thought but do you sleep on your side and is it that side?

I would think the best thing to do is to call your CNS and mention the swelling- they should be able to reassure you or check you if needed. 

Jane

Great question Jane, I recall sleeping on my side was a no-no for a period of time 

Hi I know swelling is normal post surgery and mine was quite uncomfortable for a time and I wore very loose clothing nightdresses and even dresses as anything pressing on that area made it worse. though I agree with Jane that a call your CNS to discuss would be a good idea and set your mind to rest .

Hi Avocado23, IIRC you get your histology results tomorrow don’t you? Presuming that’s an in-person appointment that would be an ideal time to ask, especially as they may well have a look at your tummy anyway. I had some localised swelling near the incisions but it was never sore or tender and I was sleeping on my side from the first night. Regarding the compression stockings, I stopped wearing mine after two weeks but only after my consultant had said it was okay as I was walking 30-45 mins per day. Thinking of you as you get your results.

Hi All,

Thank you for the responses. 

I have been sleeping on my back because the side is uncomfortable, although improving. On the short occasions I have tried to sleep on my side, it would be on the left. However these have been short lived and I have reverted to back sleeping.

MarmiteFan59, you are correct I get my histology results today (feeling sick about this). I am planning to talk to my consultant about the swelling. I was just trying to get some reassurance (this is common) from the group yesterday, as I felt it was odd to suddenly notice swelling 9 days after the procedure. Maybe it happened gradually and I only noticed when it got bad and my clothes became uncomfortable.  

Thanks,

Sara

Hi Avocado.

I hope you have managed to ask about this. I had a similar problem. I had a 'pouch' between my legs and felt like a kangaroo!! One doctor told me it was fat, but it wasn't there before the operation. 3 other health professionals said not to worry. It very gradually disappeared, but then I noticed my left leg swelled at night. I eventually asked about this a few months ago. (Operation was 6 years ago) As I thought it is Lymphedema, caused by my lack of lymph nodes. I have to wear a compression stocking, which certainly helps, although I have left it off sometimes in this very hot weather. I did wonder how I would cope with cut offs and a stocking, but at nearly 80 I am past caring what I look like anyway!!! Yours might not be the same problem, but get checked.

I read that some women experience bleeding after 10-14days. I wonder if that's to do with stitches dissolving? Maybe this issimilar, but like everyone has a professional opinion is probably best. If it's not too painful and not hot in that area then hopefully not an infection, maybe just the last of the gas leaving or things just finding their new spots?

Good luck with the results Sara, as I said in a post I found waiting for them the hardest part of this journey. Fingers crossed it's all good news.

Hi All,

I got my histology results back yesterday. I am so relieved it is Grade1, stage 1a and it is unlikely I will need further treatment (pending review by the Oncology team).

I actually feel guilty about sharing this news as I know some of you were/are not so fortunate. 

The consultant said my being overweight was the most likely contributing factor as fat cells release continuous low doses of oestrogen. II had no idea about this. That makes me feel I got what I deserved!!

I was told the abdominal swelling was not too bad and should subside. The wounds are healing OK. I am allowed to drive!!!! :-)

I will see the consultant again in 6 weeks. 

Best wishes to all of you!

Sara

That's great news, I don't think you should feel guilty, just lucky!

Hi Avocado,

So glad for you for your results. I was Grade 2 stage 1A, with no need for more treatment. I was very thankful for that, and although I have collected a 'fat' leg I feel its a small price to pay!!