Why do I need minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery?
Thanks to advancements in surgical solutions and modern tools, most gynecological procedures no longer require the traditional “hip to hip” open abdominal incision. Your OB/GYN may recommend minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery for any of the following reasons:
- Polyp removal
- Cancer treatment
- Endometriosis treatment
- Uterine fibroid removal
- Total or partial hysterectomy
In some cases, the laparoscope is beneficial for getting a clear view of your reproductive organs to aid in the diagnosis process. This is known as a diagnostic laparoscopy and in some cases, it’s possible to treat minor issues during this type of minimally invasive surgery.
What are the benefits of minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery?
Dr. Motesharrei often prefers performing minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery over traditional open surgery, for a variety of reasons. Minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery is beneficial because it:
- Causes less damage to surrounding tissues
- Requires a shorter hospital stay (if any)
- Leads to less postoperative pain
- Leaves little to no scarring behind
- Cuts down your recovery period
- Reduces the risk of surgical error
- Minimizes bleeding
It’s also common to be able to return to your regular activities much sooner with a minimally invasive procedure, as opposed to traditional open surgery. When you come into Women's Global Health of Northern Virginia for your surgical evaluation, Dr. Motesharrei determines if this type of procedure is right for you.
How long is the recovery after minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery?
Even though minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery reduces your downtime and allows you to get up on your feet quicker, it’s still surgery, and you need to follow Dr. Motesharrei’s postoperative instructions carefully to let your body heal.
For minor surgeries, such as a diagnostic minimally invasive laparoscopy, Dr. Motesharrei often recommends staying home and relaxing for at least a few days or up to a week. If you have a more complex minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, such as a hysterectomy, you might need about a week or two to recover.
In any case, it can take up to about a month for you to be able to return to all of your normal activities, including exercise and intercourse. But Dr. Motesharrei monitors you regularly and lets you know when you can get back to your entire normal routine.
Learn more about minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery procedures offered at Women's Global Health of Northern Virginia by booking an exam online or over the phone.
