The “One Hole” surgical approach used by Dr. Shirin Razdan represents a significant shift in the patient experience. While traditional robotic surgery was a leap forward from open surgery, Single Port (SP) Robotics further refines the recovery process, reducing the physical and emotional burden on patients facing kidney cancer or complex urological issues.
At Miami Robotic Surgery, we believe that knowing exactly what to expect—from the moment you wake up in the recovery room to your first follow-up appointment—is the key to a stress-free transformation.
Immediate Recovery: The First 24 Hours
Because Dr. Razdan utilizes the da Vinci SP system, which enters the body through a single 2.5 cm incision (often in the belly button), the immediate post-operative phase is remarkably different from multi-port procedures.
- Walking the Same Day: One of the most critical components of Dr. Razdan’s protocol is early mobility. Most patients are encouraged to sit up and even take short walks within hours of their surgery. This prevents blood clots and helps the digestive system “wake up” faster.
- Manageable Discomfort: Most patients describe the feeling as a localized “soreness” rather than the sharp, multi-site pain associated with traditional robotic surgery. Many of our patients find they can manage their recovery with minimal or even zero narcotic pain medication.
- Hospital Stay: While open surgery used to require a week-long stay, Dr. Razdan’s Single Port patients are typically discharged within 24 to 48 hours.
The First Two Weeks: Healing at Home
Once you return to your home in Miami or your recovery suite if you are visiting from out-of-state, your body begins the deep work of internal healing.
- Energy Levels: It is normal to feel more tired than usual during the first week. Even with “One Hole” surgery, your body is directing significant resources toward internal repair.
- Activity Restrictions: You should avoid heavy lifting (over 10 pounds) and strenuous exercise during this window. However, light walking is highly encouraged to maintain circulation.
- The “Scarless” Reveal: By the 10-day mark, the single incision in the umbilicus (belly button) is often healing so well that it is becoming difficult to see. This cosmetic advantage is one of the hallmarks of the SP approach.
Returning to Normalcy: Weeks 3 through 6
By the third week, most patients are feeling like themselves again.
- Back to Work: For those with desk-based or executive roles, returning to work within 2 to 3 weeks is common. If your job involves physical labor, Dr. Razdan typically recommends waiting until the 4-to-6-week mark.
- Driving: You can usually resume driving once you are no longer taking any pain medication and can move comfortably enough to make a sudden stop.
- Full Clearance: After your one-month follow-up with Dr. Razdan at Miami Robotic Surgery, most patients are cleared for full physical activity, including swimming and gym routines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I care for the single incision?
Dr. Razdan uses specialized surgical glue or small strips that allow you to shower almost immediately. There are no bulky bandages to change, and the single site is much easier to monitor than multiple incisions.
Will I have a catheter after surgery?
In most kidney surgeries, the catheter is removed before you even leave the hospital. Dr. Razdan’s goal is to return you to your normal function as quickly as possible.
When can I travel back home if I’m flying into Miami?
For out-of-state patients, we generally recommend staying in the Miami area for 7 to 10 days post-surgery to ensure you are fully stable for a flight. Our concierge team can assist with these arrangements.
Recover Faster with the Leader in Single Port Surgery
Choosing the right surgical platform is about more than just the operation—it’s about the life you live after. Dr. Shirin Razdan offers the most advanced robotic recovery available in Florida today.
Contact Dr. Shirin Razdan:
- Surgeon: Dr. Shirin Razdan
- Practice: Miami Robotic Surgery
- Phone: 305-468-3314
- Address: 3650 NW 82nd Avenue, Suite 502, Miami, FL 33166
