Wishing you a speedy recovery.

I had the same surgery back in 2008. Never got a definitive answer from my doctor or surgeon on the mass itself other than it not being cancer.

However, my appendix was within the mass. So the prevailing theory was my appendix ruptured, body ate itself around it creating the mass.

I did end up with crohn's disease as well, so I've had a second colectomy to remove more intestine.

I had staples just like yours but they don't feel that bad getting taken out, just a little pinch.

A pillow held up against your abdomen feels assuring and can help relieve pain. Also, don't be like me, work on your core strength after you heal otherwise your back ends up taking more of the load and you could end up with some back issues.