Question:
Is Lap an option if you've had a C-section?

I am wondering if anyone knows if it's possible to have lap WLS rather than open if you've had a C-section. I had two C-sections, both low transverse (bikini line). Also, if you have open, is there any chance they can do a tubal ligation at the same time? I am tired of BC pills! Thanks for any info!    — Jiminy (posted on February 16, 2003)

February 15, 2003
I had 2 c-sections, also and had lap RNY on 10/29/02. I don't know about the tubal but my guess is that they might not be able to do that at the same time. When they do the RNY lap, they are working in the upper abdomen and the tubal would be in the lower abdomen. Open might be another story, but it seems to me they might need to extend an already big incision down further to get to the fallopian tubes. (FYI: my husband had a vasectomy - done in the doctor's office. No more pills!
   — koogy

February 15, 2003
I've had 2 C-sections and YES was offered a lap RNY. However, like you I wanted a tubal too and avoid general anesthesia twice (I have 5 children), so unfortunately because of dealing with 2 different areas of the abdomen, and the manipulation of instruments etc., the only choice was open. It went fine--no regrets--and I'm SO GLAD not to have to be put under twice--the anesthesia really was more of my recovery (tiredness, forgetfulness etc.), than the physical recovery of surgery. Good Luck
   — Wannabe A.

February 16, 2003
I had a c-section and hamy tubs tied and I had mine done lap Im almost 4 weeks out and doing great.
   — Lisa B.

February 16, 2003
I've had 2 bikini line c-sections in 1988 and 1990. Also had my appendix removed lap in 2001 and now scheduled to have lap rny 2/20.
   — jnc

February 16, 2003
Hi! I had had 2 C-sections before and lap gallbladder surgery and I got to have lap RNY. With my last c-section, I had a tubal done at that time. I would imagine that you'd have to have two separate surgeries, just because of the areas they are working in. With the RNY, it's high up on your stomach. With the Tubal, it's all very low down. I had a friend who had a tubal by itself and they did it lap. She only had three holes and healed very quickly. You can always ask your surgeon just to be sure. The way they decide if you get lap RNY or open RNY is by looking at the person's pre-op weight (some surgeon's will not attempt lap on someone that is over 350lbs), the size of your abdomin, and sometimes complications during Lap that require them to switch over (such as not being able to get to things inside). Good luck to you! Melisa RNY 08/15/02 - 77lbs
   — mbradley35

February 16, 2003
I had 3 c-sections and the Dr. I chose would not let me have lap due to scaring. It is all up to the Dr. you choose but to be on the safe side get a second opinion because they wouldn't say no to lap unless there was a good reason. I had open RNY and I now have a long ugly scar but would do it over again just to know which ever way you get it done you will be healthier and feel better than you ever felt being heavy.
   — Julie C.

February 17, 2003
i had 3 sections and incisional hernia repair from sections and i had lap. i swore id wake up with an open incision and was very happy to not have gl
   — lori O.