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What Precautions To Take After Hernia Surgery?


Hernia repair surgery is one of the most common surgeries done. People recover from the surgery within 2-3 weeks and return to their daily lives. The National Centre of Biotechnology Information claims that there is a low mortality rate after the surgery.
However, patients need to follow certain precautions after the surgery to recover quickly and reduce further complications.
The Type Of Surgery And Recovery Time Is Related
A hernia occurs when a muscle starts weakening and results in swelling or bulging of the abdomen. It occurs in most women after a C-section delivery as the back of the naval is weak and delicate. In men, a hernia is usual in the groin muscles. We can treat hernia easily with a simple surgery.
There are two types of hernia repair surgery. One is through the laparoscopic method, where we make a few incisions near the spot to repair it. This surgery takes less time to recover.
The conventional hernia repair surgery takes pace by making long and deep cuts in the abdomen. As a result, it takes a little longer to repair.
You should follow your doctor for the recovery procedure.
Do’s And Don’ts After The Hernia Repair Surgery
After your surgery is over, you will have to stay in the hospital for a day or two, depending on your condition. If you respond quickly to your medicines, you will get a discharge. However, you must follow certain precautions once your surgery is over.
Do’s
- Clean your wound regularly. You will get special instructions from the hospital for the same.
- Keep the incisions dry and clean. Remember to reapply the gauze after bathing.
- Try eating foods rich in fibre. Drink at least eight glasses of water every day to reduce constipation.
- Go for regular walks, as this will improve your metabolism.
Don’ts
- Avoid swimming. But you can take a shower 36 hours after the surgery.
- Avoid having sex for a week or two if you experience post-operative swelling of the penis and testicles. It is advisable to ask your doctor freely about the commencement of sexual activity.
- Do not lift heavy weights after the surgery, as it can be extremely harmful.
- If you are still having the narcotic effect of medicines, avoid driving for a week.
- Avoid doing strenuous physical exercises as the surgery site might not heal.
- Do not soak yourself in a hot water tub for quite some time after the surgery.
- Avoid smoking after surgery.
- Do not consume alcohol after the surgery. It can have an extra narcotic effect on the medicines you are consuming.
What To Expect After Hernia Surgery?
A hernia surgery takes little time to recover. However, you can experience pain or discomfort for a few weeks, and that’s alright. If you are experiencing long-term pain for a month, you must immediately consult a doctor.
- You can experience strange bowel movements, which is a natural thing after the surgery. Doctors can recommend softer stool after the hernia surgery to ease the discomfort of constipation.
- Some patients experience the return of hernia again. Do not worry, as the slight bulging in the stomach can occur postoperative fluid filling up in the stomach after the surgery.
- You can find little pieces of tape known as steri strips falling from your stomach. These strips may fall after 7-10 days. It is alright not to worry regarding this, and even if the strips get wet, they won’t pose a problem.
- For inguinal hernia in men, they can experience swelling in the groin area. The swelling on the scrotum and penis may remain for a few days, which is again normal.
As a hernia repair surgery is not that complicated, you can return to your daily life weeks after the surgery. The precautions after this surgery are almost similar to the precautions you take after any surgery.
However, you must never neglect your health after hernia repair surgery. Stay in touch with the doctor for 6-7 months after the surgery to track any further problems and abnormalities.
We offer hernia treatment at our hospital to those suffering from this condition. Our hospital has the best general surgeon in Pune, India. They can provide you with good advice and treatment.
Post Hernia Surgery Complications
Hernia surgery is generally safe, but like any procedure, it may have potential complications. Some common post-surgery complications include:
- Pain and Discomfort
Mild to moderate pain at the surgical site is common and may persist for a few weeks. Severe or worsening pain should be reported to the doctor. - Infection
Redness, swelling, fever, or drainage at the incision site may indicate an infection that requires prompt medical attention. - Hernia Recurrence
In some cases, the hernia may recur if the repair is not strong enough or due to excessive strain post-surgery. - Bleeding or Hematoma
Bruising or accumulation of blood under the skin can occur, especially in open surgery. - Nerve Damage
Temporary numbness or tingling around the surgical site is possible. Rarely, long-term nerve damage can lead to chronic pain. - Bowel Obstruction
Scar tissue or adhesions from surgery can sometimes cause intestinal blockages, leading to symptoms like vomiting, constipation, or abdominal pain. - Seroma or Fluid Buildup
Fluid may collect under the skin at the surgical site, causing swelling that usually resolves on its own. - Difficulty Urinating
Some patients experience temporary urinary retention after surgery, especially after general anesthesia. - Mesh Complications (in case of mesh repair)
Rarely, issues such as mesh rejection, infection, or migration can occur, requiring further medical evaluation.
Diet For Hernia Patients After Surgery
A proper diet after hernia surgery is essential to promote healing and prevent complications like constipation or bloating. Here’s a recommended diet plan:
1. Clear Liquids (Immediately After Surgery)
- Start with clear liquids like water, herbal teas, clear broths, and coconut water.
- These are easy to digest and prevent dehydration.
2. Soft Foods (First Few Days Post-Surgery)
- Opt for easily digestible foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, oatmeal, applesauce, and soups.
- These reduce strain on the digestive system.
3. High-Fiber Foods (To Prevent Constipation)
- Include fiber-rich foods like whole grains, fruits (like bananas, apples, and berries), and vegetables (like carrots, spinach, and zucchini).
- These help maintain regular bowel movements and reduce pressure on the surgical site.
4. Protein-Rich Foods (For Healing)
- Incorporate lean proteins like chicken, fish, eggs, tofu, and legumes to aid tissue repair and muscle recovery.
- Include nuts and seeds in moderation.
5. Probiotic Foods (For Gut Health)
- Yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods like kimchi or sauerkraut improve digestion and prevent bloating.
6. Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine or carbonated drinks to prevent dehydration and gas buildup.
Foods to Avoid
- Spicy and Acidic Foods: Can irritate the stomach.
- Gas-Producing Foods: Avoid beans, cabbage, cauliflower, and carbonated drinks to prevent bloating.
- Fried or Fatty Foods: Can slow digestion and lead to discomfort.
- Hard-to-Digest Foods: Red meats and processed foods can strain the digestive system.
FAQs
- What are the restrictions on physical activity after hernia surgery?
Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercises, and sudden movements for at least 4-6 weeks. - How should the surgical site be cared for after hernia surgery?
Keep the area clean and dry, and follow the doctor’s wound-care instructions. - Can a hernia reoccur after surgery?
Yes, improper post-operative care or weak abdominal muscles can cause recurrence. - What diet is recommended after hernia surgery?
A soft, fibre-rich diet is ideal to prevent constipation and strain during bowel movements. - When can normal activities be resumed after hernia surgery?
Light activities can be resumed within a week, but strenuous tasks require clearance from a doctor.
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