Laparoscopic surgery — often called minimally invasive surgery — has changed the way we approach many medical procedures. It typically results in smaller incisions, faster recovery times, and less pain compared to traditional open surgery.

If you’ve been scheduled for a laparoscopic procedure, you probably have a lot of questions. Here’s a clear breakdown of what to expect before, during, and after your surgery, so you feel prepared every step of the way.

Before the Procedure: Preparing for Surgery

1. Pre-Surgical Consultation

Your surgeon will:

• Review your medical history
• Explain the reason for the surgery
• Discuss risks and benefits
• Answer your questions

You may also be asked to undergo:

• Blood tests
• Imaging (like ultrasound, CT, or MRI)
• EKG or other preoperative screenings

2. Fasting and Medications

• Typically, you’ll be asked not to eat or drink for 6–8 hours before surgery.
• Your doctor may advise you to stop certain medications, especially blood thinners, several days before the procedure.

3. What to Bring

• ID, insurance card, and any paperwork
• Loose-fitting clothing for after surgery
• A responsible adult to drive you home

During the Procedure: What Happens in the Operating Room

1. Anesthesia

• You’ll be under general anesthesia, meaning you’ll be completely asleep and won’t feel anything.

2. Small Incisions

• The surgeon makes 2–4 small incisions (0.5–1 cm each) in your abdomen.
• A small tube pumps gas (usually carbon dioxide) into your belly to create space.

3. Inserting the Laparoscope

• A laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera and light) is inserted.
• Surgical tools are placed through other incisions to perform the operation.

4. Procedure Duration

• Most laparoscopic surgeries take 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the condition being treated.

After the Procedure: Recovery and Healing

1. In the Recovery Room

• You’ll wake up in a recovery area where nurses will monitor you.
• Some grogginess, nausea, or mild pain is normal.

2. Going Home

• Many laparoscopic procedures are same-day surgeries, so you’ll go home once you’re stable.
• You’ll need someone to drive you home.

3. Recovery at Home

• Mild pain or soreness near the incision sites is common for a few days.
• You might experience shoulder pain from the gas used during surgery.
• Most people can return to light activities within 2–5 days, but full recovery may take 1–2 weeks, depending on the procedure.

4. Caring for Your Incisions

• Keep incisions clean and dry.
• Watch for signs of infection (redness, swelling, discharge, or fever).
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity until your doctor says it’s safe.

When to Call Your Doctor

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

• Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
• Worsening pain or swelling
• Bleeding or discharge from incisions
• Difficulty urinating or breathing
• Persistent nausea or vomiting