Fibroid Treatment in Fort Worth

Before Your Surgery

Consultation and Preparation: Have a thorough discussion with your surgeon about the procedure, risks, benefits, and what to expect. Ensure that all your questions are answered, and you feel comfortable with the process.

Medical Evaluation: You may need to undergo some pre-operative tests, such as blood work, EKG, and imaging studies, depending on your health condition and your doctor’s instructions.

Medications: Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus): If you are taking semaglutide or similar GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight loss or diabetes, your surgeon may advise you to stop taking it at least 1 week before surgery. Semaglutide may affect gastrointestinal motility, which can interfere with anesthesia and post-surgery recovery.

Diabetic Control: If you have diabetes, it is essential to maintain good control of your blood sugar levels before surgery. Poor diabetic control can delay healing and increase the risk of infection.

Your healthcare team will work with you to ensure your diabetes is well-managed, including adjustments to insulin or other medications if needed.

Discuss any other medications you are currently taking, including blood thinners, aspirin, or supplements. Your doctor may ask you to stop taking certain medications that could increase the risk of bleeding.

If you are prescribed medication for blood pressure, diabetes, or other chronic conditions, your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to manage these before surgery.

Smoking and Alcohol: Stop smoking at least 4 weeks before the procedure, as smoking can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications. Avoid alcohol consumption for at least 48 hours before the surgery.

Fasting: Do not eat or drink anything for 8-12 hours before your surgery, as required by your surgeon or anesthesiologist.

Bowel Preparation: Your doctor may give you specific instructions regarding bowel preparation, including a laxative or enema, depending on your case.

Arrange for Post-Surgery Care: Arrange for someone to drive you to and from the hospital and to stay with you for the first 24-48 hours after surgery, as you will likely feel drowsy and will need assistance during the initial recovery.

Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing to the hospital on the day of surgery. You will be given a hospital gown to change into for the procedure.

On the Day of Surgery

Arrival Time: Arrive at the hospital or surgical center on time, as instructed.

No Jewelry or Makeup: Remove any jewelry, contact lenses, makeup, or nail polish before arriving at the hospital.

Pre-Surgery Check: Your surgeon or anesthesiologist will go over the procedure and may ask you to sign consent forms.

Immediately After Surgery

Recovery Room: After the surgery, you will be moved to a recovery room where your vital signs will be monitored. You may feel groggy due to the anesthesia, and mild abdominal pain or cramping is common.

Pain Management (ERAS Approach): Many hospitals now use an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol to manage post-operative pain and promote faster recovery. ERAS focuses on multimodal pain relief, which includes a combination of medications and techniques to minimize the use of narcotics. You may receive medications such as acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or nerve blocks before and after surgery to control pain more effectively with fewer side effects. This approach aims to reduce pain, minimize opioid use, and help you return to normal activities more quickly.

Hospital Stay: Many patients are able to go home the same day of surgery or after a short hospital stay (typically 24-48 hours), depending on their individual condition and recovery progress.

Incision Care: Keep your incisions clean and dry. Your doctor will give you instructions on how to care for the incision sites, including when you can shower and how to avoid infection.

Blood Sugar Monitoring: If you have diabetes, it is essential to continue monitoring your blood sugar levels closely after surgery. The stress of surgery can affect blood sugar control, and adjustments to your medications may be needed. Follow your doctor’s instructions on managing diabetes post-operatively.

Activity Restrictions: Rest and avoid heavy lifting (nothing heavier than 10 pounds), strenuous activities, or exercise for at least 4-6 weeks after surgery. Walking and light activity are encouraged to promote circulation, but take it easy and listen to your body.

Driving: Do not drive for at least 1-2 weeks after surgery or until you have stopped taking narcotic pain medications and feel comfortable sitting for long periods without discomfort.

In the Weeks Following Surgery

Pain and Swelling: You may experience mild pain, bloating, and gas in the first few weeks. This is normal and will gradually improve. Over-the-counter medications, as recommended by your doctor, can help alleviate this.

Vaginal Bleeding: Some light vaginal spotting or discharge is normal for several weeks after surgery. However, if you experience heavy bleeding, large clots, or signs of infection (such as fever or foul-smelling discharge), contact your doctor immediately.

Bowel Movements: Constipation is common after surgery due to the effects of anesthesia, pain medications, and decreased activity. Stay hydrated, eat a fiber-rich diet, and consider taking stool softeners as advised by your doctor.

Follow-Up Appointment: Schedule and attend all follow-up appointments as instructed. These visits allow your surgeon to monitor your recovery and check for any complications.

Sexual Activity: Avoid sexual intercourse for 6-8 weeks after surgery, or as directed by your doctor. You will need to wait until the vaginal area has fully healed.

Return to Work: You can typically return to work 4-6 weeks after the surgery, depending on the type of work you do. Desk jobs may allow for an earlier return, but jobs requiring physical labor may need a longer recovery period.

Long-Term Care

Hormonal Changes: If your ovaries were removed along with your uterus, you may experience menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, or sleep disturbances. Discuss hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with your doctor if needed.

Physical Activity: Gradually reintroduce physical activity into your routine after 6-8 weeks. Follow your doctor’s advice about when it is safe to resume exercise.

By following this pre and post-care guide, including stopping semaglutide, maintaining diabetic control, and adhering to all other medical recommendations, you can ensure a smooth and successful recovery from your hysterectomy. Always adhere to the specific recommendations provided by your surgeon for a safe recovery.