When should the swelling in the abdomen go down after laparoscopic surgery?

Laparoscopic surgery: Swelling after laparoscopic surgery is caused by the gas used inside the abdomen. Usually carbon dioxide is used, and this absorbs in about 1 day. Other gases may have swelling that lasts longer. The gas left in the abdomen can cause pain in the shoulder until it absorbs. If you are still swollen, and feel ill, you should contact your surgeon.