Question:
Is anyone 4wks post-op and still have a lot of swelling and soreness?

Just wanted to know if there are folks out there who is at least 4wks post op and still has lot of swelling and pain in the upper part of their incision. I kinda strained myself the other day and noticed that afterwards, I swelled more..I also still have a hard time turning from side to side in bed..thanks for your answers..    — Angel G. (posted on June 25, 2000)

June 25, 2000
Angel, I'm 5.5 mo. post-op from open RNY. I remember all too well the soreness and swelling from surgery. It has only been the past month or two that I have started feeling "normal" again. I remember going for my 3 mo. check up, and the Dr. told me to lie down and lift my feet 2 inches!!! I thought he was crazy! But with his help I did it! I was sore for a few days after. From then on, I tried to "wean" myself in to excercising my tummy muscles. Rolling in bed was a problem for me too, so I "propped" my tummy with pillows. Your body has been through a lot and needs time to heal. Take it slow and one day at a time. You are still very early in the recovery period. Good luck!! Pre-op 284# Today 212# {on a long plateau:-( }
   — Dani J.

June 25, 2000
Hi! I was 4 weeks post op this Friday. I also do still have a problem rolling from side to side in bed. I also have a couple spots on my incision that are a little open, and I am still sore when I use my stomach muscles too much. Sometimes I feel great when I get up, and later during the day, my stomach gets swelling. I still have a so called "itchy-ouhy" type feeling along my incision, and when I rub in a large circle over my entire stomach, it seems to feel good! I know it sounds weird but...?! Also, a body pillow for nightime is a great help! Open RNY May 26th--down 41 pounds! Email me if you want to exchange more!
   — Lisa N.

June 26, 2000
I think what you are experiencing is perfectly normal. I still have quite a sore incision at times and I am 12 weeks post-op. I am still not able to sleep on my side at all but I weighed over 400 pounds when I started. I would talk with my surgeon if you are concerned about your incision or muscle soreness. Good luck to you!
   — rinnchris