How Long Does A Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Take?
Discover how long a laparoscopic hysterectomy takes, including average surgery duration, recovery time, and what to expect before and after the procedure for a smoother healing journey.
Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025
Introduction
If you or a loved one is considering a laparoscopic hysterectomy, you may have questions about the procedure, especially how long it takes. Understanding the timeline can help ease anxiety and allow you to plan for recovery. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Is a Laparoscopic Hysterectomy?
A laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove the uterus (and sometimes the ovaries and fallopian tubes) using small incisions and a tiny camera called a laparoscope. Compared to traditional open surgery, this method offers:
Faster recovery
Less pain
Smaller scars
Lower risk of complications
How Long Does the Surgery Take?
The duration of a laparoscopic hysterectomy varies depending on several factors, but on average, the procedure takes 1 to 3 hours. Here’s what influences the time:
1. Type of Hysterectomy
Total Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and cervix): 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Supracervical Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus, keeping the cervix): 1 to 2 hours
Radical Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus, cervix, and surrounding tissues, often for cancer): 2 to 4 hours
2. Additional Procedures
If the surgeon also removes the ovaries and fallopian tubes (called a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy), the surgery may take 30 minutes to an hour longer.
3. Patient Factors
Uterus size (larger fibroids or uterus may take longer)
Scar tissue from previous surgeries
Overall health (complications like bleeding can extend time)
4. Surgeon’s Experience
An experienced surgeon may complete the procedure more efficiently.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
What Happens Before, During, and After Surgery?
Preparing for a hysterectomy can feel overwhelming, but understanding what to expect before, during, and after the surgery can help ease anxiety and ensure a smoother experience.
1. Before Surgery (Preparation)
Pre-op tests (blood work, imaging)
Fasting (usually 8-12 hours before)
Medication adjustments (if you take blood thinners)
Anaesthesia consultation
2. During Surgery
1. Anaesthesia: You’ll be given general anaesthesia (asleep).
2. Small incisions: The surgeon makes 3-4 tiny cuts in the abdomen.
3. Gas inflation: The abdomen is filled with CO₂ to create space.
4. Camera and tools: A laparoscope guides the surgeon while small instruments remove the uterus.
5. Closure: The incisions are stitched or glued.
3. After Surgery (Recovery)
Hospital stay: Usually 1-2 days, sometimes same-day discharge.
Pain management: Mild discomfort, manageable with prescribed painkillers.
Recovery time: Most women return to light activities in 1-2 weeks, full recovery in 4-6 weeks.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
Some of the tips for smooth recovery are:
1. Rest but stay mobile: Gentle walking helps prevent blood clots.
2. Avoid heavy lifting: No lifting over 10 lbs for 4-6 weeks.
3. Stay hydrated & eat fibre-rich foods: Prevents constipation from pain meds.
4. Follow wound care: Keep incisions clean and dry.
5. Listen to your body: If pain worsens or you have fever, contact your doctor.
When to Seek Help?
Call your doctor if you experience:
Heavy bleeding
Severe pain
Fever or chills
Redness/swelling at incision sites
Conclusion
A laparoscopic hysterectomy is a safe and effective procedure with a shorter recovery time than traditional surgery. While the operation itself takes 1-3 hours, proper post-op care ensures a smooth healing process. If you’re considering this surgery, consult a specialist to discuss your options. Apollo 24|7 offers expert gynaecological care. Book a consultation today for personalised advice.
Consult Top Obstetrics and Gynaecology Surgeon
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr. Shailaja L
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS, MS
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. Alapati Jyotsna
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
4 Years • MBBS MS Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr Swatika Kumari
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
19 Years • MBBS, DGO, DNB Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Nashik
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Maharashtra, Nashik
Dr. Ritika Khurana
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS, DGO(GYNAECOLOGY AND OBSTETRICS)
Pune
Dr Rupali and Dr Ritika, Pune
Dr. Debashree Saha
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
4 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Kolkata
DR. DEBASHREE SAHA Clinic, Kolkata
Consult Top Obstetrics and Gynaecology Surgeon
Dr. Shailaja L
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS, MS
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. Alapati Jyotsna
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
4 Years • MBBS MS Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr Swatika Kumari
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
19 Years • MBBS, DGO, DNB Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Nashik
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Maharashtra, Nashik
Dr. Ritika Khurana
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS, DGO(GYNAECOLOGY AND OBSTETRICS)
Pune
Dr Rupali and Dr Ritika, Pune
Dr. Debashree Saha
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
4 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Kolkata
DR. DEBASHREE SAHA Clinic, Kolkata
