Hernia All FAQ

Diet is an integral part of recovery after hernia repair. Therefore, doctors ask patients to include food items such as rice, eggs, yogurt, beans and lentils, nuts, etc, in their daily diet. In addition to this, staying hydrated is important to reduce risk of constipation. Therefore, drinking lots of fluids such as juices, water, etc are also recommended.

The patient should avoid any type of stretching, bending or lifting heavyweights in the initial days of the recovery. After six weeks of hernia surgery, the patient can resume cardio exercises such as walking, swimming, stationary cycling, jogging, etc. The patient can gradually shift to exercises that target the core such as planks, bench presses, etc. after 12 weeks of the procedure. The workout regime should be consulted with an expert before starting.

Patients should diligently follow so do’s and don’ts after hernia repair. Some of the aftercare tips to follow are- engage in light activities such as running, walking, jogging, etc. to promote blood circulation, taking proper care of the wounds at regular intervals and consume a healthy diet that includes lots of fiber and fluids. Some of the things that should be completely avoided are- lifting heavyweights, engaging in strenous activities or exercising, driving, overeating, missing out follow-ups with the doctor, etc.

It is possible that there can be some pain and swelling around the incisions for 2-3 days after the recovery. This is a common side effect that occurs after hernia surgery and can be easily curbed with proper medicines and aftercare tips. However, if the pain continues for a couple of days, get in touch with the doctor without any further delay.

The patient can walk immediately after the hernia surgery, provided the effects of anesthesia wears off. In fact, it is recommended by surgeons that patients walk for a couple of minutes regularly and not sit for long hours without any movement. Continuous movement helps in blood circulation around the wounds and minimizes the risk of seroma.

For the initial 15 days of the recovery, patients should not lift any heavyweight whatsoever. Extra weight can put extra pressure around the wounds and open the incisions that can lead to bleeding or infections. After two weeks, if surgeons seems it fit, the patients can resume lifting heavywrights, but not more than 15 pounds.

Generally, surgeons claim that it is okay to fly within 24 hours of the procedure. However, if it is best if patients recover completely and resume flying after a period of 4-6 weeks. By this time, the wounds dry up and there is no swelling or pain too.

Patients can resume having sexual intercourse after 3 weeks of the procedure. However, let pain be your guide. In case there is any pain or discomfort during sex, stop immediately and speak with the surgeon who can guide properly.

Patients should take complete rest for the initial 24 hours of the recovery. This is to ensure that the effects of anesthesia wears off completely. With the laparoscopic technique, patients are able to recover within 2-3 days.

Surgeons prescribe patients to avoid drinking alcoholic beverages for the entire duration when they are on medications of the recovery. The components of the alcohol can mix with the medicines and prove to be fatal. Patients should also not consume or resume taking any medicines without any consultation with the surgeon.

As patients are back on their feet within 2-3 days of the laparoscopic hernia repair, they should take off from work accordingly. They can resume work after a couple of days provided that they do not overstrain themselves. In case the patient’s job includes lifting heavyweights or any strenous activities, they should take atleast one week of off from work.

Generally, patients need to keep the dressing for 24-48 hours of the procedure. After the follow-up, if the surgeon seems it fit, the patient can remove the dressing totally.

No. But it is common for people to experience sexual dysfunction after hernia surgery, especially if inguinal hernia is cured. This is a temporary condition that cures on its own. However if the problem continues, get in touch with a specialist.

Yes. If patients fail to follow the post-operative care and falls back on continuing unhealthy lifestyle habits, the hernia can recur due to the weakening of the tissue. Therefore, once the procedure is complete, patients should take proper aftercare tips.

Yes. Coughing excessively puts strain on the wounds that can eventually open due to the pressure. Doctors recommend to hold the wound area lightly while coughing or sneezing to reduce this strain.

Although rare, yes it is possible. After an inguinal hernia repair, if the venous blood supply from the testicle gets damaged, the chances of developing a varicocele increases manifold.

Yes. As the mesh is a foreign object for the body, there is a possibility of some side effects. Some of the common complications associated with the mesh include adhesions, infection, obstruction with bowel movements, pain in the abdomen, etc. These are common phenomenon that can occur and can be cured with proper aftercare tips.

Although very rare, some of the complications that have been reported during laparoscopic hernia surgery are- seroma, urinary retention, testicular pain, mesh infection, wound infection, pain in the testicles, injury to other neighboring organs, bleeding, severe pain, constipation, pain in the shoulder, etc. These are some common side effects that people report after procedure. With proper aftercare tips, these can be cured absolutely.

No. Generally, patients don’t feel the pressure of the mesh once it has been placed inside the weakened part of the abdomen to provide support. However, when surrounding nerves or blood vessels get entrapped within the mesh, they can feel some pain and mild swelling. It is advised to visit the surgeon in case the pain or swelling don’t subside with eventually.