Laparoscopic hysterectomy - large incision, is this normal?

I've had a total laporascopic hysterectomy with ovarian conservation to treat early stage cervical cancer about 6 days ago, and although I have now changed my dressings twice, it was only yesterday when I could clean most of the dried blood away that I saw the size of one of the incisions. I have 3 in total - 1 either side of my tummy, and one below the belly button, which is as expected and what the surgeon explained would happen.

What I was not expecting, however, is the size of the incision below my belly button. I knew this would be slightly larger than the other two, to allow for the laporascope, but this is about 6-7cm long, and is a vertical incision straight down from my belly button.

This is much, much larger than I was expecting. The uterus was removed vaginally, so I don't understand why it is so large. Is this normal?

Obviously this is something I will ask the consultant at my 6 week appointment, but that's a long time to wait.

  • Hello and thank you for your post,

    I am sorry to hear you have had to go through surgery for early stage cervical cancer.  I can appreciate you want to know more about the surgery you had.

    I'm afraid that I cannot explain why the size of the incision below your belly button is bigger than you expected. Certainly there will be some post operative swelling but I don't think this explains the length of the wound.  

    I realise that your next appointment is in 6 weeks so in the meantime you might be able to talk this through with your gynaecology nurse specialist or your GP.

    You may have been given some literature to take home when you were discharged, reading this might help you understand what was done.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Caroline