I’m currently at home recovering from a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, which I had exactly one week ago today. The surgery was recommended after a dermoid cyst was found on my right ovary, which appeared to be growing quickly. The procedure took longer than expected because, due to having had two previous C-sections, I had extensive adhesions. My surgeon mentioned that my uterus was fused to the stomach wall, and other areas needed to be freed up before the surgery could begin. I have four incisions, and unfortunately, I developed a severe reaction to the dressings, causing red, sore, and itchy blisters. Thankfully, this has calmed down, but the incisions are still tender, and my abdomen is bruised and swollen. The incisions are now covered with waterproof dressings (these seem to be fine) and steri-strips over dissolvable stitches. Does anyone know when I should attempt to remove the dressings and steri-strips? I think I was told ten days, but I’m unsure, and I don’t want to bother the ward staff. I’m nervous about removing them because the wounds seem to have bled quite a bit, and I’m worried about the incisions opening up. Since the surgery, I’ve had a troublesome cough, and now my chest feels tight with pain in my upper back—should I be concerned? I don’t want to trouble my GP unnecessarily if this is normal after general anesthesia. My consultant plans to see me next week and again at six weeks to monitor my healing. I’m 53 and post-menopausal, so at least I don’t have the typical symptoms associated with ovary removal. I didn’t expect to still be in so much pain a week later, as I made sure to be physically fit beforehand and weigh just over 8 stone. I suspect I have several internal stitches that will take time to heal, and maybe I’m just being impatient. I’ve seen many conflicting reports about when it’s advisable to return to full-time work, so any advice on this would also be greatly appreciated.
Thank you in advance for any tips or guidance!