I had the distal pancreadectomy 12/7/2022. One drain was out after about 3 days. Home on 4th day. Sore mid section of course but routine of OTC pain meds handled except once when I took a tramadol. Did hurt when I laughed for about 4 weeks and some pain down my left side and in my shoulder. Also very extended belly for awhile due to has used for the Lap surgery. I believe my recovery was good due to two things:
An excellent surgeon
Expedite

My surgeon has a dietician on staff. I see her every visit. She advised I buy expedite and drink one daily for 6 days up to the surgery and that it would speed the healing process. I believe it did!
I am now scheduled for liver surgery this upcoming Monday and am drinking one a day. It is a “medical food” with concentrated collagen dipeptides. You might ask about it