What should I expect from ovarian cancer surgery after chemo?

Surgery after chemotherapy can feel overwhelming, and reaching out to this supportive community shows real courage during this challenging time. Many members here have walked similar paths and understand the mix of hope and anxiety that comes with this next step in treatment. The experiences shared by others who have been through ovarian cancer surgery can provide valuable insights about recovery expectations and practical tips for healing.

Hi. It’s been 2 years Tuesday that I had a total laparoscopic hysterectomy after 3 rounds of chemo and then a month later had 3 more rounds. I’ve been on Avastin since 2/24 and so far so good. Finally after 2 years I had a port put in since it was so hard to find a vein. I’m not sure if I normal in my post-op recovery but the surgery was out patient and went home 3 hours later and went back to work 3 days later. No complications in any way. No pain - actually my only side effects in 27 months have been to lose all of my hair - grew back after a year. And horrible chemo diarrhea. I was 76 then and will be 79 in January. And I’m still working. Hope your surgery went as well as mine and wish you a smooth recovery.

Hi. I was diagnosed with Stage 4 ovarian cancer. I had surgery to remove the large mass in my pelvis 2 weeks ago. Spent a week in the hospital and now I’m getting around better. Will start chemotherapy on Dec. 1 and not sure what to expect. Hopefully, my positive attitude will help.

I thought I’d freak out having needles and drugs go into my body but I was extremely calm and had no issues. But the 2nd round I did have a reaction to the third drug and couldn’t breathe. Stop the treatment and started over with one new drug for 3 weeks in a row and then the 3 drugs the 4th week. Way too much chemo in a short amount of time. Ended up in the hospital for 9 days with low platelets, low magnesium and potassium. Had no saliva so I couldn’t eat - only have liquids. Massive amounts of IV potassium going in and them going right back out. so I said enough, I’m going home. Against advice I did with a prescription of liquid potassium and was back to normal in a week. Still took a bit to have the diarrhea stop and return to eating but better than being in the hospital. Do what you think is best for you. Doctors do not know you, your body or don’t always know what’s best for you. Not everyone’s body is the same. When I questioned my oncologist he said the amount of chemo “looked good on paper” for my body . Obviously it wasn’t. A very good ending to my story though so all is good. I wish the very best for you - you can do it and come out on top