Laparoscopy has transformed gynaecological surgery — smaller incisions, faster recovery, less pain. Yet many patients are anxious about “what happens during surgery”. Here is what you can expect.

What Laparoscopy Is

Laparoscopy uses a thin camera (laparoscope) inserted through a small incision near the navel. Surgeons view the abdominal cavity on a high-definition monitor and operate using fine instruments through 2-3 additional small incisions (5-12mm).

Compared to open surgery: less pain, faster recovery, smaller scars, lower infection risk, shorter hospital stay (usually 1-2 nights vs 5-7).

Common Gynaecological Laparoscopies

• Endometriosis excision
• Myomectomy (fibroid removal)
• Ovarian cyst removal
• Hysterectomy (uterus removal)
• Adhesiolysis (releasing adhesions)
• Tubal surgery / sterilization reversal
• Diagnostic laparoscopy for infertility or pain workup

Why 3D Laparoscopy Matters

3D laparoscopy gives stereoscopic depth perception — closer to natural surgical vision than 2D. For complex procedures (endometriosis excision, myomectomy, deep pelvic surgery), 3D helps the surgeon work more precisely with less tissue trauma. This translates to better fertility preservation and faster recovery.

What to Expect on Surgery Day

You are admitted on the day of surgery, fasting from the night before. General anaesthesia is given. Surgery typically takes 1-3 hours depending on complexity. You wake up in the recovery area with mild discomfort at the incision sites.

You can usually eat liquids that evening, walk briefly the next morning. Most patients go home within 24-48 hours. Heavy activity, intercourse, and lifting are restricted for 2-4 weeks.

Risks and Recovery

Laparoscopy is generally safe but no surgery is risk-free. Specific risks include bleeding, infection, injury to adjacent organs (bowel, bladder, blood vessels — rare in experienced hands), conversion to open surgery if needed, and anaesthesia-related issues.

Most patients return to normal daily activity within 1-2 weeks. Recovery is significantly faster than open surgery.

Choosing Your Surgeon Matters

Laparoscopic gynaecology, especially for endometriosis, fibroids, and fertility-preserving surgery, has a steep learning curve. The same procedure done by an experienced excision surgeon vs a less experienced laparoscopist can have very different outcomes — particularly for fertility preservation. Ask: how many of this specific procedure has the surgeon done?