This depends on what type of surgery you are having. Simpler laparoscopic procedures may be performed with just three small incisions – one hidden in the belly button and two hidden beneath the underwear line. More complicated surgeries may require between three and five incisions – ranging in size from 0.5-1cm. These incisions are much smaller than the incision required for a laparotomy (or “open surgery”) and tend to heal faster with less associated pain. Ask your doctor what the plan is regarding your incisions. And always remember that your doctor will perform your surgery with the number of incisions that make your surgery as safe as possible.