When your doctor says you need surgery, the next question is often:
"Will it be open surgery or laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery?"
Thanks to advancements in surgical technology, many common procedures today can be done using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques—resulting in faster recovery, less pain, and smaller scars.
But not all cases are the same. At Medlyfe Hospitals, we help patients understand the difference between laparoscopic and open surgery, and which one is right for them.
Let's break it down for you.
What is Laparoscopic Surgery?
Also called keyhole surgery or minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopic procedures involve:
- Small 0.5–1 cm cuts
- Use of a thin camera (laparoscope) inserted through small incisions
- Real-time images projected on screen
- Surgical instruments inserted through other tiny incisions
Commonly used for: Gallbladder, hernia, appendix, uterus, ovarian cysts, piles, fistula, etc.
What is Open Surgery?
Open surgery involves:
- A larger cut (typically 6–8 cm or more)
- Direct access to the organ or tissue
- Longer incision healing and higher chances of visible scarring
Open surgery is still essential in some complex or emergency cases (e.g., trauma, large tumors, infections).
Laparoscopic vs Open Surgery – Key Differences
| Feature | Laparoscopic Surgery | Open Surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Incision Size | 0.5–1 cm | 6–10 cm or more |
| Pain | Minimal | Moderate to severe |
| Blood Loss | Very low | Higher |
| Infection Risk | Low | Moderate |
| Hospital Stay | 1–2 days (sometimes day-care) | 3–5 days |
| Recovery Time | 5–7 days | 2–4 weeks |
| Scarring | Tiny or no visible scars | Prominent scars |
| Cost | Slightly higher (equipment) | Moderate |
When is Laparoscopic Surgery Recommended?
- Hernia repair
- Gallbladder (stones)
- Appendix
- Uterus or ovarian cyst removal
- Diagnostic laparoscopy (for infertility or abdominal pain)
- Fistula & piles (laser or minimally invasive approach)
Same-day discharge is possible for many laparoscopic surgeries at Medlyfe.
When is Open Surgery Still Preferred?
- Complicated or emergency abdominal trauma
- Large tumors
- Intestinal perforation
- Previous failed laparoscopic surgery
- If patient has multiple adhesions or scar tissue
Why Medlyfe Hospitals for Laparoscopic Surgery?
- Experienced surgeons in general, GI, and minimal access surgery
- Laminar Flow Operation Theatres
- Real-time laparoscopic equipment with HD video support
- On-site diagnostics for fast pre-op clearance
- Same-day pharmacy and post-op counselling
- Transparent pricing with EMI options on select procedures
We always explain both options and help you choose what's best—not what's easiest.
Patient Voice
"I had gallstones and was scared about surgery. Medlyfe's team explained the laparoscopic process so well—I went home the next day and was back to work in a week."
— Manoj S., 39