Laparoscopic recovery is shorter than traditional surgery recovery, due to the smaller incisions. Laparoscopic surgeons insert a special camera and equipment into the patient through a series of small incisions. The benefits to this type of surgery include a much lower risk of infection and a faster recovery time.

There are four things that you should expect from laparoscopic recovery: excess gas, shoulder pain, nausea and bruising. Almost all laparoscopic surgery is completed as outpatient surgery, with overnight stays required only on rare occasions. The actual surgical time required is longer than traditional surgery, but the benefits to the patient make it well worth it.

In order to allow for the insertion of the camera and surgical instruments, carbon dioxide gas is pumped into the body during surgery. This process creates space between the muscles and the organs, so that the surgeon can have a clear view. After the surgery, the body absorbs the carbon dioxide harmlessly. The primary side effect of this absorption is an increase in abdominal gas and related pain. The body will pass gas repeatedly during the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery, until the carbon dioxide levels in the body are reduced.

Shoulder pain can be a very alarming part of laparoscopic recovery, but this is usually gas pain. If you had abdominal surgery, the gas may drift up to the shoulder area and collect there, causing pain. Relieve the pain by applying heat packs and taking over-the-counter pain medication. In time, the gas will relocate into the digestive tract, where it will be passed out naturally.

Most people do not react well to anesthesia. Be prepared for nausea, vomiting, headaches and jaw tension. Although some hospitals may provide medication to relieve these symptoms, most encourage patients to wait and allow the body to adjust naturally. On occasion, people have reported recurring nightmares after surgery and some have difficulty falling asleep. If this is an ongoing problem, talk to your doctor.

Deep purple bruises are very common when recovering from laparoscopic surgery. Although the incisions were small, the muscles were cut, pulled and pushed during the surgery. Abdominal surgery often causes extensive bruising along the hip bones, even if the surgery was higher up the abdomen.

It is very common to feel exhausted for the first six to 10 days after surgery. Although the laparoscopic recovery period is faster, the body still needs time to heal from the effects of surgery. Balance resting with moving the body around. Short walks, going up and down stairs and moving your upper body all stimulates blood flow and will help your body to heal.