What is it like to have major surgery?

**baxjul** · 03-22-2006, 07:52 PM

Just wondering, because I have to have surgery on my neck, throat area. I've never been "put to sleep", and I'm kind of scared. Any comments would be appreciated.

**midwestgal** · 03-22-2006, 08:02 PM

Baxjul, I've been "put to sleep" 3 times, twice in the last couple months. It's very easy and almost peaceful. I had quite a humorous anesthesiologist the last time. I was laying on the operating table, and the last thing I heard him say was, "Thanks for flying with us," and I was out like a light. The next thing I knew, I was in recovery.

**tbs727** · 03-22-2006, 08:04 PM

I've been "under" once and it was very easy. Go to sleep and wake up a minute later.

**Cele** · 03-22-2006, 08:08 PM

I'm facing my sixth surgery in six years. I have more experience than I would like in this area.

It's all over before you know you're out. If you have specific fears, tell the anesthesiologist--you should meet with him during your pre-op testing.

Personally, I hate having the IV put in. My veins are very small and they usually end up poking me a half dozen times. Compared to that, everything else is a breeze!

**McD** · 03-22-2006, 08:27 PM

I've had three major surgeries, including two on my neck/throat for lymph node problems when I was a child. It's really not bad. Its quite peaceful and it's a relaxing little catnap!@

**MOMMYDEAREST** · 03-22-2006, 08:30 PM

i have been put under 1 time & i was very nervous. when i finally woke up, i just laughed because it was such a breeze & i couldn't believe i was so worked up about the whole thing. you will be just fine

**Missy** · 03-22-2006, 08:38 PM

I have had a few myself. And before i realised I was falling asleep, i was awake again.

**Dixie** · 03-22-2006, 08:45 PM

I've never had surgery of any kind, so I can't say. However, I just wanted to let you know I'm praying for a positive outcome.

**FrugalMomof3** · 03-22-2006, 08:58 PM

I've had quite a few myself and once you think ok I am falling asleep your waking up saying "It's over?" lol, you'll be fine.

**PrairieRose** · 03-22-2006, 10:17 PM

It's really not so bad Julie. I've had a few surgeries (to mention only a few, hysterectomy, c-section, appendectomy, back surgery). You really do just go to sleep and it seems like no time at all has passed when you wake up. It's almost a welcome feeling after the stress of the pre-op stuff. I'll be praying for a positive outcome for you too, don't worry......

everything will be ok.

**SewCrafty** · 03-23-2006, 12:27 AM

Julie

I have been put out so many times I've lost count. It is just as the ladies say. I personally have a thing about seeing the OR, so I ask to be out before being wheeled in there.

**Julia Kimber** · 03-23-2006, 12:53 AM

I've had several surgeries Julie, you may feel groggy for a while after coming round but apart from that no problems!

Julia

**joyb** · 03-23-2006, 03:22 AM

I've been put under a few times. Like the others said--a nice nap.

**Darlene** · 03-23-2006, 07:25 AM

I think they usually give you a little something in your iv that makes you feel very relaxed and content without a care in the world.La la la. Last time dd had surgery (tonsils & adnoids) she was one happy girl before going to surgery. "Like hey man, this is good stuff."
You get to wear a cool gown and funny cap too! Like everyone said you are out before you know it and wake up asking "it's over?"
Don't be afraid to share any concerns you have with your anesthesologist, you'll meet him/her before the surgery when you get all the pre-op stuff done like bloodwork. hey are part of the team that cares about your well being and want to make you feel safe & well cared for.
Glad you are getting this done so you can get on with living your life and not worry anymore. You'll be OK & we'll be cheering you on.

**QuilterMom** · 03-23-2006, 08:25 AM

Both my c-sections were done with general anesthesia. I was out fast and it seemed like no time had passed when I awoke. The first one was done late at night so I went right back to sleep after coming out of recovery (well, as much as you can call it sleep in the hospital with them coming and checking you every 5 seconds!). That one was very easy for me. This last one was during the day and I was very groggy after coming out of recovery and felt like I was in a heavy fog the rest of the day. Still not bad though.