Keyhole surgery means smaller wounds and a faster recovery than open surgery — but it is still surgery, and knowing what's normal makes the first fortnight far less worrying.
Expect soreness around the small incisions, which is usually well controlled with simple painkillers taken regularly rather than waiting for pain to build.
Many patients are surprised by shoulder-tip ache after abdominal keyhole surgery. This is completely normal: gas is used to create working space during the operation, and residual gas irritates the diaphragm, which refers pain to the shoulder. It settles within a day or two and — importantly — walking helps it clear faster.
Mild bloating and a temporary change in bowel habit are also common.
This is the single most useful thing you can do. Gentle, frequent walking:
Short, regular walks are better than one long effort. Rest when you're tired — but don't spend the week in bed.
Keep the small wounds clean and dry. You can usually shower after the first day or two — pat the area dry rather than rubbing. Avoid soaking: no baths, swimming pools or tubs until the wounds have fully healed. Follow the specific dressing instructions your team gives you, as these vary by procedure.
Start with fluids and light food, then build up as you feel able. Stay well hydrated and include fibre — constipation is common after surgery (partly from painkillers, especially codeine-based ones) and straining is exactly what you want to avoid, particularly after hernia repair. Ask about a stool softener if needed.
Recovery varies by procedure, by person, and by job — but broadly:
Physically demanding jobs and larger repairs — particularly abdominal wall reconstruction — take longer. Your surgeon will give you a timeline for your operation.
The general rule: you can drive again when you are pain-free, fully alert, off strong painkillers, and able to perform an emergency stop comfortably without hesitating. For most keyhole procedures this is around a week, but test it stationary before you set off, and check your insurer's position.
Contact your surgical team or attend the emergency department if you develop:
The last of these needs emergency attention. Most people never experience any of this — but recognising it early matters.
Take painkillers regularly at first, walk little and often, keep wounds clean and dry, eat fibre and drink fluids, and increase activity gradually. Recovery is usually straightforward — and knowing what's normal means you can get on with it rather than worrying.
Procedure-specific guidance is in the free Patient's Handbooks, and any question is worth raising at your follow-up.
This article is for general patient education only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Individual circumstances, risks and recovery vary — please consult a qualified medical professional for advice specific to your condition.