I have severe pain on my left side near an incision site. My surgeon told me pain is normal there because that site took a lot of abuse when he pulled my stomach through it. It just keeps getting worse but I am weaning myself off my pain meds. It feels like a burning, tearing pain when I lean, bend or sometimes just walking triggers it. Can anyone relate? When will it subside?

I am 4 weeks out tomorrow and still have pain on the left side. It especially burns when I am getting out of bed or when going from a sitting position to standing of if I lean over at the waist to pick something up. Better than it was but still can take my breath away at times!!

Oh girl!! I had the same thing thought it was never going to go away. That stinging pulling a rubberband feeling. Ughhhh I was sleeved on 9/12 and just yesterday was the first day I was able to sleep on my left side and on my belly. It was glorious!! Every one kept saying to be patient. Although its so hard. Everyone is different and has different healing times. Don't short yourself out on the pain med. if your hurting take it especially at night. Don't put a time frame on yourself. You need your sleep to help you heal!!

What is a binder?

A binder is kind of like a girdle but just for your belly only. I helps to support your ab muscles. You can get them at Walgreens or Walmart in the first aid section or at Target or babies r us. I am a nurse and we use them for our c section moms post op. It made all the difference in the world for the pain. If you haven't been sleeved yet, as your MD if he can perscribe one while in the hospital. Try it...it is wonderful

The same thing here. I'm almost two weeks out. The pain at the largest incision site intensified when I started to up my exercise to 51 minutes at 3.0 mph. At night I have a soft little pillow that I put on my tummy or use to support it if I turn on my side. That helps a great deal. I haven't used my pain meds in 4-5 days but the binder is a great idea. Not sure where to look in my area but I'll try Walgreens.

Thanks for the info on what the binder is! I will definitely ask about that!