Recovering after a left nephrectomy....Whats it like?

Welcome to Connect, @nnimblett.
You are wise to ask others about what to expect as you approach the date for a nephrectomy. I'm tagging @trishanna @kathleenla @rosemarya @jolinda @apr931 and @darlia who may have tips and insights to share as you prepare for surgery. Naturally everyone is different and your recovery will depend on many factors, including your current health status, physical fitness and more.

You might be interested in reading this information from Mayo Clinic, which details the procedure, how you prepare, results, etc of nephrectomy or kidney removal: http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/nephrectomy/home/ovc-20326175

While we wait for others to join the discussion, Nnimblett, can you tell us a bit more about you? Why does your kidney have to be removed?

@nnimblett Hope your surgery goes well. As Colleen Young said, though, everyone is different and recovery is based on a variety of items. My one suggestion: I was "ignored" by hospital staff insofar as walking following surgery is concerned. Luckily for me, a Night Supervisor realized what was happening and I found myself being walked at 3 a.m.! Walk! Demand to be walked! Walk even when it's the last thing in the world you want to do. Walk when you get home. If it's too cold, whatever, walk back and forth in your residence. Drove home (3 hours) two days after surgery - not bad at 78, I think.

I am scheduled for a partial nephrectomy Jan.23,2019..had several months to think about it so now it's getting close I am really scared...surgeon is doing it robotically...my main concern is the mass part of it is in the kidney and part of it is not...they have already told me since it is solid mass most likely cancer...but said after mass is removed cancer is gone...what worries me it is not contained in kidney so is there a good risk that has it spread elsewhere...I've had 2 scans to get ready for surgery and nothing has told me it has spread...wonder if scan would show if spread...found mass on mri I had for hip...seeing specialist for my hip wed. Wonder if there is connection somewhere...hope to find out more wed. I hate worrying but husband just finished battling colon cancer for yr.treatments...now wonder if my turn!

Try to put your trust in your surgeons and not to be afraid, the mind has a big effect on your body.....stay positive, I know its difficult. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Thank you for suggestions it is hard to stay positive but I am really trying!

Thanks for the advice...will take note...

Hi,I had my left remove I had kidney cancer 1991.was in the H ostpital for 10 days..on liqs.. no food,great doctors...no complications...soreness..but not alot of pain..took meds after 3 days no regular meds.....

Some time we may can't reverse,but we can hold it steady! Keep your interpeace.work with what you have,joy,peace,family,stay focus on the great things in your life,it only natural to worry,but. Keep a postive mind and and prayer.

It is 2 weeks since I completed my left nephrectomy surgery. I left hospital after 3 nights. I took the advice of walking walking as soon as could Around the hospital hall way..I’m still sore but coming along. Now off the strong meds and going to do a post op metabolic work up to see why I formed large kidney stones. Thankful to be alive and kicking through recovery. Grateful for all advice and encouragement received. Trying to work through a suitable diet going forward with my dietician.