Patients are likely to remain in the operating room for about an hour following the procedure. In most cases, patients who have had open surgery spend one to three days in the hospital. However, a patient recovering from a ruptured appendix may remain in the hospital longer. A drain may remain in their incision for several days, and patients should keep their incision site dry and clean to avoid infection. They will also be monitored for any other complications that may arise, such as bowel blockage.

Patients who have laparoscopic surgery are likely to be discharged from the hospital the same day of the procedure. Patients should not drive, but instead should have a friend or family member take them home. 

Recovery from appendectomy usually takes several weeks, although the exact amount of time required will depend on the type of procedure performed. As with any surgery, patients may experience minor pain and discomfort during the healing process, and over-the-counter pain medication may be recommended. If laparoscopy is used, recovery time is quicker, and less pain medication is typically required. In general, patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity, such as exercise or lifting heavy objects, for between four and six weeks. However, light exercise, such as walking, may be recommended.

The vast majority of patients make a full recovery and do not need to make diet, exercise or other lifestyle changes. Patients are likely to have a scar following surgery, but it is usually very small.

In rare cases, people who have undergone an appendectomy can experience “stump appendicitis,” inflammation of the tiny part of the appendix that remains after surgery. In such cases, a second surgery may be needed to remove the remainder of the appendix. Leaving a stump less than 3 millimeters long in the original surgery may prevent stump appendicitis.