Cystectomy recovery time may take several days to a week to leave the hospital and the complete recovery time may take one and a half to two months. It is important to not only rest and follow your physician’s instructions but to become competent in the care of your stoma and emptying of the internal or external urinary reservoir. This includes the cleaning, disposal, and ordering of any equipment you may need such as ostomy bags, adhesive paste, adhesive remover, deodorizers, and catheters.

Cystectomy procedures will include standard after surgery activities and care. You should familiarize yourself with your post surgery instructions prior to having the cystectomy so you will have planned out your recovery and clearly understand what your tasks ahead are.

As with most surgical procedures you will be given pain medication so that you will be able to rest, recover and keep your body active. You may have an IV tube when you wake up which may be removed as early as one or two days. While you are resting you will be asked to do some breathing exercises along with an Incentive Spirometer. You may also have some inflatable leg wraps called sequential compression devices while you are remaining in bed. These devices help stop clots from forming in your legs.

Once you are allowed to get out of bed you will be asked to start walking during the day. As time goes by you will become stronger and the exercise of walking will allow blood to circulate which will help you recover sooner. By sticking to your walking and exercise program that you will be given, your digestive system will acquire early bowel function. You will also remove stiffness, relieve pressure, allow secretions to flow, and improve breathing.

After the bladder cancer surgery you will see drains coming out of you belly, they will initially help remove urine or excess fluid from the surgical site and they will be removed as the days go by. When your doctor discharges you, you will be given instructions on slowly building up your strength, using any new appliances, arrange for home care, and medications.

Cystectomy home recovery and training will initially require you to avoid lifting weights (more then five pounds), limiting your use of stairs, bending at the waist, and driving especially when on pain medication. Make sure to give yourself rest periods, drink fluids, and slowly increase your mobility and exercise regimen.