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Post-Surgery Care
Care After Laparoscopic / Robotic Surgery
Keyhole (laparoscopic) and robotic surgery use tiny cuts, so you'll have less pain and a quicker recovery — but your body still needs gentle care while it heals.
First 24–48 Hours
- Shoulder-tip pain and bloating from the gas used during surgery are normal and settle in 1–2 days.
- Walk a little as soon as you are allowed — it clears the gas and prevents clots.
- Start with sips of fluid, then light food. Take pain relief as prescribed.
Wound Care
- Keep the small cuts clean and dry. You can usually shower after 24–48 hours and pat dry.
- Do not scrub the wounds or apply unprescribed creams.
Diet & Activity
- Eat light first (soup, khichdi), then return to normal food. Drink plenty of fluids and fibre to avoid constipation.
- Take short walks daily. Avoid heavy lifting (over 5 kg) and strenuous exercise for 2–4 weeks.
- Drive only when pain-free and off strong painkillers. Many return to desk work in about a week.
When to Call Your Doctor
- Fever above 100.4°F (38°C) or chills.
- Increasing tummy pain or swelling, or a wound that is red, leaking or bleeding.
- Heavy vaginal bleeding, trouble passing urine, or no gas/stool for long.
- Calf pain or swelling, or any breathlessness or chest pain.
By Dr. Neha Singhania, Gynecologist – Navi Mumbai · This leaflet is for general information and does not replace personal medical advice.