Some info...
My best girlfriend had open RNY on 11/13/03 and she said to bring a cushy pillow to place over your stomach for when you sneeze or cough. I believe they give you something in the hospital, but she had this cute stuffed puppy dog and I thought it was more personable. So, I bought a stuffed Dora doll to lay across my stomach. I thought it would be something nice to keep my spirits up while I'm in the hospital. The pillow is good to have whether you're having it open or lap.
Kelly