A colectomy is a specialized surgical procedure that involves removing all or part of the colon—the main portion of the large intestine. At our practice, we understand that major abdominal surgery can create significant anxiety and concerns. That's why we're committed to providing compassionate, expert care while helping you understand each step of your treatment journey. This definitive procedure effectively treats conditions such as colon cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and other disorders affecting colon function and health. At Lifetime Surgical, our colectomy approach utilizes advanced minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate, including laparoscopic and robotic-assisted methods that enhance precision and visualization. We implement enhanced recovery protocols that minimize narcotic use, promote early mobility, and optimize nutrition, resulting in shortened hospital stays and a more comfortable recovery with a quicker return to normal bowel function.
You may need a colectomy if you experience:
Diagnosed colon cancer requiring surgical removal
Recurrent or complicated diverticulitis not responding to medical management
Large, precancerous polyps not amenable to colonoscopic removal
Bowel perforation or obstruction requiring intervention
Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis) not controlled with medication
Recurrent bleeding from the colon not manageable with less invasive techniques
Volvulus (twisting of the colon) causing obstruction
Ischemic colitis with tissue damage
Severe, chronic constipation related to colonic inertia
Familial polyposis syndromes requiring prophylactic removal
Trauma to the colon requiring surgical intervention
Certain cases of toxic megacolon (severe colon dilation) requiring emergency surgery
At Lifetime Surgical, our approach to colectomy combines precision with personalized care. The procedure begins with comprehensive preoperative planning, including advanced imaging and colonoscopy to precisely locate the diseased segment and plan optimal resection margins. What sets us apart is our surgeon's expertise in minimally invasive techniques, including laparoscopic and robotic-assisted approaches that provide superior visualization and precise control during complex colon resections. We employ enhanced recovery protocols that begin before surgery and continue throughout your care journey, incorporating evidence-based strategies for pain management, early mobilization, and optimized nutrition. Our distinctive approach includes preservation of blood supply to anastomosis sites, tension-free reconnection of the remaining bowel, and when appropriate, nerve-sparing techniques to preserve urinary and sexual function. For cancer cases, we adhere to oncologic principles with appropriate lymph node sampling while using specialized wound protection systems to prevent tumor seeding. We offer various reconstruction options tailored to your specific condition, whether creating a primary anastomosis or, when necessary, fashioning a temporary or permanent ostomy with comprehensive ostomy education and support.
Immediate Post-Procedure (1-5 days)
Expect a hospital stay of 2-5 days depending on the extent of surgery and recovery progress
Begin clear liquids once bowel sounds return, advancing diet gradually as tolerated
Use patient-controlled analgesia or multimodal pain management to control discomfort
Participate in early mobility protocols, including sitting up and walking within 24 hours of surgery
Work with respiratory therapy on deep breathing exercises to prevent lung complications
Monitor surgical drains if present, which are typically removed before discharge
Use anti-nausea medications as needed to improve comfort
Receive instruction on ostomy care if applicable, with specialist support
Meet with discharge planning team to prepare for home care needs
Understand signs of complications to monitor once home
Short-Term Recovery (1-4 weeks)
Attend your follow-up appointment (typically 10-14 days after surgery)
Continue advancing diet according to surgeon's recommendations, typically progressing to a low-residue diet
Walk multiple times daily, gradually increasing distance as strength improves
Avoid lifting anything heavier than 10 pounds for at least 4-6 weeks
Monitor incisions for proper healing, keeping them clean and dry
Manage ostomy care independently if applicable, with access to ostomy nurse support
Resume showering once cleared by your surgeon, typically before discharge
Expect some fatigue, which gradually improves over several weeks
Return to work based on your surgeon's recommendation and job requirements (typically 3-6 weeks)
Begin transition back to normal diet around 4 weeks, unless otherwise instructed
Report any concerns about bowel function, pain, or wound healing promptly
Long-Term Expectations
Complete internal healing occurs within 6-8 weeks
Gradual fading of surgical scars over 6-12 months
Bowel function typically stabilizes within 3-6 months
Most patients can return to all normal activities, including exercise, after 6-8 weeks
Follow-up colonoscopy scheduled according to your condition and surgical findings
For cancer patients, ongoing surveillance per oncologic guidelines
Ostomy reversal (if temporary) typically considered after 2-3 months
Dietary adjustments may be necessary based on the extent and location of colon removed
Most patients experience excellent quality of life following recovery
Annual check-ups help ensure continued digestive health and monitor for any changes
Long-term survival rates for colon cancer are excellent when caught and treated early
Common Side Effects
Temporary changes in bowel habits (frequency, consistency)
Abdominal bloating and gas pain during recovery
Incisional discomfort during healing process
Subtle reconstruction lines that gradually fade with time
Fatigue during the recovery period
Temporary dietary intolerance to certain foods
Mild adhesion formation (internal scar tissue)
Temporary urinary changes or difficulty
Less Common Complications
Anastomotic leak (separation at the reconnection site, 2-5% risk)
Surgical site infection (surface or deep, 5-10% risk)
Bleeding requiring transfusion or reoperation
Bowel obstruction due to adhesions or internal hernias
Prolonged ileus (delayed return of normal bowel function)
Injury to nearby structures (small bowel, ureter, bladder)
Deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
Incisional hernia development
Stricture formation at the anastomosis site
For rectal surgery: changes in urinary or sexual function
Ostomy complications if applicable (retraction, prolapse, parastomal hernia)
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
Severe, worsening abdominal pain
Persistent nausea or vomiting
No bowel movement or gas passage for more than 3 days after initial return of function
Significant redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage at incision sites
Reopening of any surgical wound
Significant bleeding from the rectum or ostomy
Severe constipation or diarrhea
Inability to tolerate liquids or maintain hydration
Chest pain or difficulty breathing
Ostomy complications: significant color change, excessive output, separation from skin
From your first consultation through your complete recovery, we provide:
Thorough evaluation and explanation of your condition
Clear discussion of all treatment options, including non-surgical alternatives when appropriate
Detailed pre-operative instructions to help you prepare
Compassionate care during your hospital stay or outpatient procedure
Comprehensive follow-up care and support during recovery
Ongoing availability to address questions or concerns
We understand that facing head and neck surgery can be intimidating, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Our team is committed to providing expert care with a personal touch, ensuring you feel supported, informed, and confident every step of the way.
Your health and wellbeing are our highest priorities, and we're honored to be part of your care team.
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All our laparoscopic procedures are performed by our highly trained surgical team using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques.
We're committed to providing you with the most advanced, minimally invasive options because we believe you deserve:
Less pain after surgery
Shorter hospital stays
Faster return to work and activities you enjoy
Smaller, less visible scars
Lower risk of complications
Better overall outcomes
Dr. Richard Nguyen is a board-certified General Surgeon with over 20 years of surgical expertise and fellowship training in Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery from Vanderbilt University. Since establishing his practice in San Jose in 2007, he has pioneered innovative surgical techniques, including single-incision laparoscopic procedures and mastery of the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System. Beyond his acclaimed bariatric surgery practice, he has earned national recognition for his specialized expertise in both non-mesh and advanced mesh hernia repairs, while also serving as a critical approach surgeon for anterior spine access procedures. Dr. Nguyen combines technical precision with personalized care across multiple premier facilities throughout the South Bay Area.
I would refer Doctor Nguyen to anyone, in fact I have and they have all had the same experience as me. He is truly great. I owe all my success to Doctor Nguyen and I thank him for all the work he has done for me and continues to do so. He is extremely amazing, and I am very grateful to him.
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At 50, I now have a life I had only dreamed of a year before. My body tells me if I am done eating. This surgery is a tool that I have used to the fullest. It is not an easy way out. It still took work. But I honestly know that I would not be living this amazing new life if I didn’t step forward to embrace this life-saving surgery.
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Dr. Nguyen has changed my life completely. I feel so much better and I also feel like I’ve got control of my life again…I had high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol. I took at least 5 different medications for the past 30 years. NOW, after surgery I take no medications only vitamins!
Wondering which surgical procedure might be right for your condition? We're here to help you understand your treatment options and develop a personalized surgical plan. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Your path to improved health may be more achievable than you think—with advanced surgical techniques leading to faster recovery, reduced complications, and a significantly enhanced quality of life.