No, laparoscopy is not a painful procedure. It is performed under general anesthesia, so patients feel nothing during surgery. After the procedure, mild discomfort or shoulder pain may last 1–3 days due to the carbon dioxide gas used during surgery.
According to Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an experienced surgical oncologist,
“Laparoscopy causes far less pain than open surgery most patients are genuinely surprised by how quickly they recover and return to their normal daily life.”
Why Does Laparoscopy Cause Less Pain Than Open Surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery reaches cancer through tiny cuts instead of a large incision, which is the core reason it causes significantly less pain and discomfort.
- Small Incisions: Laparoscopy uses 3–5 cuts of just 0.5–1 cm, causing far less tissue damage than a large open surgical wound.
- Less Muscle Cutting: Unlike open surgery, laparoscopy avoids cutting through multiple muscle layers, which greatly reduces nerve damage and post-surgical pain.
- Reduced Blood Loss: Smaller incisions cause less bleeding and inflammation, directly lowering pain levels and speeding up the healing process.
- Shorter Hospital Stay: Most laparoscopic cancer patients are discharged within 2–3 days, compared to 7–10 days required after open surgery.
To better understand how this minimally invasive surgery works and where it is commonly used, explore our detailed guide.
What Should You Expect After Laparoscopy Treatment?
Knowing what is normal after laparoscopy treatment helps patients recover with confidence and avoid unnecessary worry.
- Temporary Bloating: A feeling of fullness is common for 1–2 days as the body absorbs the CO2 gas used during the procedure.
- Shoulder Discomfort: Mild shoulder or upper back pain lasting 24–48 hours is a normal side effect caused by gas irritating the diaphragm.
- Wound Tenderness: Incision sites may feel tender for a few days keeping them clean and dry prevents infection and supports healing.
- Diet Progression: Patients usually begin with liquids and soft foods before returning to a normal diet, depending on the type of cancer surgery performed..
These recovery experiences are typical after minimally invasive laparoscopy and usually resolve quickly with proper post-operative care
Why Choose MACS Clinic for Advanced Laparoscopic Care?
Choosing MACS Clinic in Bangalore for cancer treatment means access to advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgeries with a strong focus on safety, precision, and faster recovery. Recognized for offering some of the best cancer treatment in Bangalore, the clinic uses minimally invasive techniques to reduce pain, blood loss, hospital stay, and post-surgical complications compared to traditional open surgery.
Led by experienced surgical oncologists including Dr Sandeep Nayak, the clinic offers personalized, evidence-based treatment supported by a multidisciplinary team and comprehensive follow-up care, making it a trusted center for advanced cancer treatment in Bangalore.
Book your consultation for laparoscopic cancer surgery at MACS Clinic, Bangalore.
FAQs
How long does discomfort last after laparoscopic cancer surgery?
Most patients feel mild discomfort for 1–3 days after surgery. It is usually well-controlled with prescribed medication and resolves quickly on its own.
Is laparoscopy safe for elderly cancer patients? Yes,
laparoscopy is generally safe for elderly patients as it causes less physical stress than open surgery. Suitability is confirmed through a full pre-surgical evaluation.
Can all types of cancer be treated with laparoscopy?
Laparoscopy is used for colon, rectal, gastric, and gynaecological cancers among others. Your surgical oncologist will confirm suitability based on your specific condition.
How soon can I eat normally after laparoscopic cancer surgery?
Most patients progress from liquids to soft foods within 1–2 days and return to a normal diet within one week after surgery.
