Concerns Following My Laparoscopic Appendectomy
After my laparoscopic appendectomy, I seemed to be recovering without any issues until around the 10th or 11th week when I began experiencing significant discomfort and nausea upon touch in the area to the left and slightly below my belly button. I also noticed a small lump, roughly the size of a pea, located near the incision closest to my groin. Following a visit to the emergency room, an ultrasound was performed which suggested that I might be dealing with a granuloma or an adverse reaction to the sutures. I was then directed back to my surgeon, but coordinating an appointment was challenging, and I couldn’t arrange for a post-operative consultation. When I finally did see him, our meeting lasted barely half a minute; he briefly examined me, claimed I appeared fine, and departed. Now, at 15 weeks post-surgery, I'm observing that the lump area is becoming slightly more swollen, and there's also conspicuous bulging in the lower part of my abdomen, predominantly on the left side. There are red or purplish lines stretching from between the two incisions, resembling veins, and these have become increasingly pronounced over the last four weeks. Just beneath the left incision, I had some bruising that faded initially but has since returned. Additionally, I’ve noticed a weight gain of 15 to 20 pounds since the procedure, despite my reduced food intake. Should I be worried about these developments? I intended to share images related to my observations, but I realized that didn't work out, so I provided as detailed a description as possible instead.
Answers (1)
8/14/2025, 1:50:49 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to have concerns about your symptoms following surgery, especially since you’re experiencing discomfort, changes in your body, and difficulties with follow-up care. Your symptoms could indicate a few different issues that deserve attention, potentially involving inflammation or complications at the incision site.
Explanation
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Post-Surgical Changes: After a laparoscopic appendectomy, some discomfort and minor swelling can be normal. However, significant changes such as increased swelling, discoloration, and a noticeable lump (which could be a granuloma or other issue) warrant further investigation.
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Symptoms of Concern: The bulging on the left side of your abdomen, pronounced veins, and recurrent bruising could suggest problems like fluid accumulation, hernia, or issues with the sutures used during your surgery.
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Weight Gain: Unexpected weight gain, especially with reduced food intake, may relate to fluid retention or changes in metabolism due to your surgery or any underlying conditions, making it essential to explore this further.
Next Steps
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a close watch on the lump, its size, any changes in pain or discomfort, and the symptoms of swelling or bruising. Note any new symptoms such as fever, increased pain, or changes in bowel habits.
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Seek Further Medical Evaluation: Given the persistent and possibly worsening symptoms, prioritize getting in touch with your surgeon again. If scheduling is difficult, consider:
- Calling the office directly to express your need for a thorough review.
- Asking for a telehealth appointment if an in-person visit remains challenging.
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Document Your Observations: Keep a log of your symptoms, including when they started, their intensity, and any patterns you notice. This information can be very helpful for your healthcare provider.
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Consideration of a Second Opinion: If you're unsatisfied with the care you're receiving, it may be worth reaching out to another healthcare provider or a specialist in abdominal surgeries to ensure you get a comprehensive evaluation.
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Self-Care Tips: While you await more medical guidance:
- Avoid strenuous activities that may exacerbate your discomfort.
- Ensure you stay well-hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support your recovery.
- Note if specific positions or movements increase your discomfort, and try to adjust to minimize that.
Taking these steps can help address your concerns and ensure you're on the right track toward recovery. If your symptoms escalate or you develop new troubling symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Your health is important, and it’s necessary to advocate for yourself.
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