Recovering from any surgery takes time, but being mindful of your post-surgery care is critical for full healing. When it comes to hernia surgery recovery, it is a gradual process that depends on the type of surgery performed (open surgery versus laparoscopic surgery for example) and your overall health.
Every case is different, and patients need to work with their surgeon and care team to ensure full recovery. As always, follow the medical advice of your doctor.
This blog provides a general guidance and overview that breaks down week-by-week what someone might expect post-op.
Week 1: Immediate Post-Surgery Recovery
On the day of surgery, the first few hours post-op, you will spend time in the recovery room to ensure that the general anesthesia wears off.
Once the general anesthetic wears off, you are able to go home the same day. Most individuals can leave the hospital the same day given that most hernia repair surgeries are outpatient procedures. For more complex hernia repairs, a more complicated medical condition, or a complicated hernia cause, a one to two night hospital stay may be required.
Once home, the first week after surgery is critical for proper healing. Pain management is of critical importance during this period to ensure healing. Your hernia surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help control pain, and take it as directed.
During this time, avoid any heavy lifting and strenuous activities completely to ensure you do not delay healing. Short walks and getting up frequently will help prevent blood clot formation and boost blood flow. At any signs of a blood clot like leg pain or swelling, make sure to bring medical attention to the issue.
Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious foods to ensure a balanced diet and regular bowel movements. Monitor for any severe pain during this period, especially if it is persistent even with use of pain medicine.
Weeks 2 and 3: Gradually Increasing to Light Activities
As your energy level rises and you are in less pain, your ability to do every-day activities will return. Heavy lifting and strenuous activities should still be avoided to ensure no strain to the surgical site, but gentle exercise is encouraged.
It is critical to monitor the incision site daily for any signs of infection, increased redness, swelling or any kind of drainage. Lots of fluids should still be prioritized, as should a nutritious diet. As a whole, this is the period where you can start to return to more everyday activities in the healing process.
Weeks 4-6: Getting Back to Normal Activities
By the fourth week, you should be returning to daily activities normally. It is critical to be mindful of going to any follow-up appointments and listening to what your doctor has to say to ensure proper and full recovery. Weight lifting and strenuous activities are not usually cleared until the 6 to 8 week mark but again, this heavily depends on your personal health and overall healing journey. Your healthcare provider will walk you through what is best in the recovery process.
Beyond Surgery
As a whole, hernia surgery can have a lasting impact on overall health and comfort in every day life. While after 6 weeks surgery may seem like a distant memory, it is important to take in long-term considerations. Monitoring for any recurrent hernias and managing chronic pain is critical. Scar tissue build up around surgical mesh can happen, but it should be monitored during any check-ups.
Remember that everyone’s healing journeys are unique to them. Stay in close contact with your healthcare team and don’t hesitate to reach out to your surgical team if you have any concerns about your recovery post-op.
The goal is to get you back to doing what you love, as fast as possible. That being said, proper follow-up care is of critical importance.
And for those seeking hernia expert care or hernia treatment in Los Angeles, look no further than Torrance Hernia Center. From initial consultation to post-op, patients receive treatment plans to ensure the best outcomes. Reach out today with an inquiry, we are happy to help you on your health journey.
