Getting ready for endometriosis surgery can be the most important step that you take. You have probably considered endometriosis surgery and have selected your surgeon. Now get ready for your surgery by following some simple steps.
In my experience, our patients have seen multiple providers, and some have had many laparoscopies and feel that they would have done better from a surgical recovery standpoint if they had prepared their bodies for laparoscopic or robotic surgery.
In your preparation for surgery, you may be feeling overwhelmed especially if this is your first time. A successful surgery starts with a confident, well-prepared mindset. By taking a few key steps in the days leading up to your surgery, you can set yourself up for a smoother experience and a faster recovery.
Why Preparation Matters for Endometriosis Surgery?
Endometriosis surgery can be a life-changing step toward reducing chronic pain, improving fertility, and reclaiming your quality of life. Proper preparation allows you to enter the procedure with a clear mind and ensures that your body is ready for healing. It also reduces surgical risks and helps you bounce back faster. These are all the benefits we wish for our patients to ensure a fast and quick recovery.
When you take proactive steps to prepare, you’re setting yourself up for a successful surgery and the best possible outcome. Below, we share expert tips and a step-by-step guide on what to do leading up to your surgery day. In this article we will discuss the 4 essential steps to help you:
- Step 1: The Month Before Surgery-Optimize Your Health
- Step 2: One Week Before Surgery-Focus on Self-Care and Logistics
- Step 3: The Day Before Surgery: Final Preparations
- Step 4: The Day of Surgery: Stay Calm and Breathe
- Step 5: Home Recovery and What to Expect
Step 1: The Month Before Surgery-Optimize your Health
Embrace an Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle. The month before your planned procedure can be the most important time as you have time to prepare your body and mind for surgery. One month before surgery, it’s essential for you to start planning your physical, mental, and logistical needs. We encourage patients to embrace an anti-inflammatory diet rich in leafy greens, fatty fish, and antioxidants to support healing.
By increasing the amounts of anti-oxidants in your body the weeks leading up to your procedures, will not only help with your recovery but it can help reduce prostaglandins which contribute to increase pain. Follow a diet rich in greens and fatty acids, such as omega-3’s (salmon and nuts) will help decrease overall inflammation.
Exercise Regurlary. Light exercise, such as walking or yoga, which will help your endurance, stamina, and circulation. Increasing your cardiovascular activity will enhance your recovery from anesthesia and also provide your muscles with the needed repair mechanisms to help you recover quicker.
Avoid Alcohol and Smoking. It’s important to avoid alcohol and smoking to reduce surgical risks and promote optimal recovery. It’s also helpful to arrange support for daily tasks and stock up on easy-to-digest, nutrient-rich foods for post-surgery recovery. Once your pre-op appointment arrives, you will receive instructions and clear guidance on medications, preoperative lab tests, and what to expect in the days leading up to surgery.
Organize Your Support System. Organize your support system so that you have the care that you need during your home recovery. During this time it is helpful to determine which tasks will be delegated to family and friends and have those set up. Count on your support system to help with daily tasks during the initial recovery period, such as cooking, cleaning, or caring for children. Knowing you’ll have support will ease any anxiety about handling these responsibilities post-surgery.
Step 2: One Week Before Surgery
The week before surgery is the time to organize and prepare for your home recovery after your endometriosis surgery. Consider stocking your fridge with healthy meals. Meal prepping can be truly advantages during this week. Consider prepping hearty and healthy soups and freeze them so that they can last you. Also confirm that family and friends will be taking on your daily tasks. This week may be particularly busy because you may have to plan on having your pre-op appointment and lab draws, but all of this will depend on your healthcare provider.
Tips to help you during this week:
- Prepare Your Home for Recovery: Stock up on easy-to-digest, nutrient-rich foods, like soups, smoothies, and whole grains, to make post-surgery eating easier. Set up a comfortable resting area with extra pillows and blankets, as you may need extra support in bed or on the couch.
- Review Medication Instructions: Follow your doctors recommendations regarding medications to avoid leading up to surgery, such as aspirin or blood thinners. Double-check this list to make sure you’re only taking approved medications.
- Practice Relaxation Techniques: Stress can affect healing, so try to include relaxation techniques into your daily routine. Deep breathing, meditation, or listening to calming music can help you manage any pre-surgery anxiety.
Step 3: Day Before Surgery-Final Preparations
The day before surgery has arrived and by now you are empowered to continue the preparations. The day before surgery is all about making final preparations and setting yourself up for a restful, worry-free morning.
- Follow your Fasting Protocol as Prescribed by your Doctor. Today your doctor may have prescribed limited foods or fasting. Typically, you’ll be advised not to eat or drink after midnight to prevent complications during anesthesia. Follow these instructions closely to avoid any delays on surgery day.
- Pack a Surgery Day Bag: Include your ID, insurance card, any required paperwork, and comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You may also want to bring personal items like lip balm, a book, or a small blanket for comfort. Avoid wearing makeup, lotions, and jewelry to simplify the preparation process.
- Get a Good Night’s Sleep:Try to get plenty of rest the night before your surgery. Set up your environment to be as peaceful as possible, with any lights or distractions to help sleep.
Step 4: Day of Surgery- Stay Calm and Focused
YOUR SURGERY DAY HAS ARRIVED!!!
Today is an important day, and we want you to feel as calm and prepared as possible for your endometriosis surgery. Whether you’re having laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery, here are a few reminders to help things go smoothly.
And Remember the Following:
- Arrive on time
- Bring essentials like your ID, insurance information, and any paperwork we may need.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing that’s easy to change
- Skip the makeup, jewelry, and contact lenses
- Stick to the fasting instructions from your doctor
- And above all else, Remember to BREATHE!!!
By following these simple steps, you’ll be ready to focus on your health and healing.
Call US if you have any question
What to Expect After Surgery
Once your surgery is complete, your doctor will provide detailed aftercare instructions. Here are a few general things to anticipate:
- Initial Recovery Period: You may experience some soreness and discomfort in the first few days, which can be managed with prescribed medications and plenty of rest.
- Gradual Increase in Activity: Follow your doctor’s guidance on resuming activities. While light movements are beneficial, avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise until cleared by your surgeon.
- Diet and Hydration: Stick to nutrient-dense, easy-to-digest foods to aid your body’s healing. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and support recovery.
