How long is recovery after colon resection surgery?

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In the hospital

You will be encouraged to walk the day of or the day after surgery and to start liquids early. You go home once you are eating, your pain is controlled with pills, and your bowels are starting to work.

At home

• Diet: start with smaller, lighter meals; your instructions may recommend lower-fiber foods for a short time
• Bowel habits: can be irregular at first and usually settle over weeks
• Activity: walk every day; avoid heavy lifting for the period Dr. Tufts recommends
• Driving: not while taking narcotic pain medicine
• Work: depends on your job; desk work is often sooner than physical work

Why the approach matters

Colon resections are primarily performed with the Da Vinci robotic system, using several small incisions. Compared with open surgery, minimally invasive surgery usually means less pain and a quicker return to activity. Other approaches are used when they are best for the patient.

How much colon is removed?

Only the diseased section, along with nearby lymph nodes for cancer. Most people have plenty of colon left and digest food normally afterward. For colon cancer, Dr. Tufts works with your oncologist on any further treatment.

When to see a surgeon

If you have been told you need colon surgery, a consultation will give you a recovery plan specific to you.

Get urgent care: After surgery, call for fever, worsening belly pain, vomiting, redness or drainage at an incision. Go to the ER for severe pain, a swollen belly or being unable to pass gas or stool.

Learn more: Colon & diverticulitis surgery · Da Vinci robotic surgery

Talk with Dr. Tufts

Dr. Tufts is a minimally invasive and endoscopic general surgeon. To have your symptoms evaluated or talk through your options, call (941) 391-5102 to schedule a visit at Charlotte Harbor Surgical, 4245 Kings Hwy, Unit A, Port Charlotte, FL 33980. We see patients from Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, North Port, Englewood, Cape Coral and North Fort Myers and across Southwest Florida.

Written and medically reviewed by Dr. Matthew Tufts, MD, FACS, a board-certified minimally invasive and endoscopic general surgeon in Port Charlotte, FL. Last reviewed 2026-11-11.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Every patient is different. Dr. Tufts will review your history, exam and test results with you and explain the options, benefits and risks that apply to you.