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INGUINAL HERNIA RECOVERY

About the recovery process

Here’s what you might expect as you recover from the first day through to the first few weeks.

WAKING UP AFTER SURGERY

After waking up from surgery, there may be an IV for fluids and pain medication. There may be small bandages or glue over the incisions. Small amounts of food and drink will be given shortly after.

man smiling

BEFORE LEAVING THE HOSPITAL

A nurse will go over the discharge instructions. These include what to expect over the first few days, how to care for the incision(s), a list of symptoms and warning signs, and a number to call if there are concerns or questions.

GOING HOME AFTER SURGERY

In addition to eating, drinking and being steady on your feet, you'll have to be able to urinate before going home. A responsible adult should be there to drive. Someone may want to stay over for the first few nights to assist in any house tasks.

GOING HOME AFTER SURGERY

In addition to eating, drinking and being steady on your feet, you'll have to be able to urinate before going home. A responsible adult should be there to drive. Someone may want to stay over for the first few nights to assist in any household tasks.

BEFORE LEAVING THE HOSPITAL

A nurse will go over the discharge instructions. These include what to expect over the first few days, how to care for the incision(s), a list of symptoms and warning signs, and a number to call if there are concerns or questions.


WARNING 
SIGNS
AFTER 
SURGERY

If you notice any of the following, ring your doctor or the hospital contact provided to you at your release:

  • Fever
  • Excessive sweating
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Redness
  • Bleeding
  • Worsening pain
  • Information on this site should not be used as a substitute for talking with your doctor. Always talk with your doctor about diagnosis and treatment information.

RECOVERY

It is important to rest for a few days after the surgery. A pillow placed over the abdomen will support in case of coughing, sneezing or vomitting (which can be side effects of anaesthesia). The incision(s) may be sore, swollen, bruised, tender or numb for two or three days. It's all normal and should go away within a few weeks. Contact the surgeon if there are any concerns.

PAIN MEDICATION

There may be a prescription for pain medication prior to the day of surgery. Some people find an over-the-counter pain reliever is all they need, but it is important to discuss with the doctor which medications are suitable to use after surgery, as some medications may increase the chances of bleeding.

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FIRST
WEEKS
DO’S AND
DONT’S

FIRST WEEKS DO’S AND DONT’S

There's a general principle behind what to do during recovery. The goal is to prevent infection, enhance healing and avoid brisk coughing and weight gain.

view the recovery recommendations
Surgeon looking



FIRST
WEEKS
DO’S AND
DONT’S

SPEAK TO THE DOCTOR

It's important to make an appointment with a GP and hernia surgeon to discuss your treatment options.

FIND A SURGEON

FACTS & TIPS

  • Arrange to have a responsible adult stay with you for a few days after surgery so you have help.
  • Have a pillow handy to place against your abdomen for support if you cough, sneeze or vomit.
  • Stairs may be difficult at first. Go slowly and try to limit your ups and downs.
  • Know what possible complications to be aware of, and who to call if you see any.
  • If your doctor prescribes pain medication, consider filling the prescription before surgery.
  • Make sure you schedule and go to all follow-up visits with your doctor, to ensure your safety and the success of your surgery.

NOTE

*

The outcomes and results referenced on this website are taken from internationally peer-reviewed studies. The clinical outcomes of each surgeon may vary due to different circumstances, experience and infrastructure. Please discuss with your local surgeon on what treatment option is the most suitable for you