Hernia Repair Post-Op Instructions
These instructions are for patients recovering after hernia repair surgery.
A weak area in the abdominal wall was repaired. This should help prevent future hernias at that site. Healing may take up to 6 weeks, although simple repairs may heal faster.
Please follow the instructions given directly by Dr. Aisha Akhtar and the surgical team. Your recovery plan may vary based on your procedure, medical history, medications, and operative findings.
Home care
Some swelling, bruising, and pain are expected after hernia repair. These symptoms should gradually improve over the next few days.
To help the wound heal and lower the risk of infection:
- wash your hands before touching the wound
- it is okay to let water and soap go over the wound
- do not rub off the liquid bandage or surgical glue
- pat the area dry after showering
- allow the glue to peel off on its own
- if the glue is still bothersome after 2 weeks, contact the office or discuss removal with the surgical team
- do not rub or scratch the incision area
- showering is allowed unless our office gives you different instructions
- avoid tub bathing for 5 days
Comfort measures
To help ease discomfort:
- place an ice pack on the area for 15 to 20 minutes at a time
- place a towel between the ice pack and your skin
- continue using ice as long as it helps
- apply gentle pressure to the area when you sneeze, cough, or change positions
- you may use your hand or a small pillow for support
Diet
Slowly return to your normal diet. It may be easier to start with small meals.
Constipation or hard bowel movements can increase pain after hernia repair. To help ease bowel movements:
- choose high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- drink plenty of water throughout the day unless you were told to restrict fluids
- use fiber supplements if recommended
- avoid straining during bowel movements
Physical activity
In the first few days after surgery, take short walks throughout the day. Movement helps with blood flow and healing.
Slowly return to most normal activities once your doctor says it is safe.
During recovery:
- avoid activity that causes strain or pain in the surgical area
- do not knock, bump, or pull at the wounds
- do not lift more than the weight of a gallon of milk
- lifting restrictions may be needed for about 6 weeks
- you may return to sexual activity when you feel able, unless your surgical team gives you different instructions
- wait to return to work until your doctor says it is okay
- do not drive for 2 weeks, or while taking prescription pain medication, unless cleared by your surgical team
Medications
If you stopped taking any medication before surgery, your doctor will tell you when to restart it.
Medication may be used to ease pain. Fiber supplements may also help make bowel movements easier.
If you are taking medication:
- take medication exactly as directed
- do not change the dose or schedule unless instructed
- be aware of possible side effects
- tell your doctor if you have side effects or concerns
- ask your doctor or pharmacist before combining medications
- include over-the-counter products and supplements when reviewing medications
Do not restart blood thinners or other held medications unless instructed by your surgical team or prescribing clinician.
Follow-up
Your doctor will check how you are healing after surgery. Please keep all recommended post-operative appointments.
Contact the office if you need to confirm or reschedule your follow-up visit.
When to call the office
Please contact the office if you are not getting better or if you develop:
- fever or chills
- redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or unusual wound drainage
- lasting nausea or vomiting
- pain not relieved by medication
- pain, burning, or urgency when passing urine
- frequent urination
- blood in the urine
- cough, trouble breathing, or chest pain
- any symptom that feels unusual or concerning
When to seek emergency care
If you think you are having an emergency, call emergency medical services right away.
Seek urgent medical care for:
- chest pain
- trouble breathing
- fainting
- severe weakness
- heavy ongoing bleeding
- severe abdominal pain
- confusion
- signs of a serious allergic reaction
Schedule or confirm your follow-up
If you have questions about your recovery or need to confirm your post-operative appointment, please contact the office.
Request an Appointment
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does hernia repair take to heal?
Healing may take up to 6 weeks. Simple repairs may heal faster, but activity restrictions should continue until your surgical team clears you.
Is swelling or bruising normal after hernia repair?
Yes. Some swelling, bruising, and pain are expected and should gradually fade over the next few days.
Can I shower after hernia repair?
Yes, showering is usually allowed unless our office gives you different instructions. Let soap and water run over the wound, pat dry, and do not rub off the surgical glue.
When can I take a bath?
Avoid tub bathing for 5 days unless your surgical team gives you different instructions.
How much can I lift after surgery?
Do not lift more than the weight of a gallon of milk. This restriction may be needed for about 6 weeks.
Can I drive after hernia repair?
Do not drive for 2 weeks or while taking prescription pain medication unless cleared by your surgical team.
What should I do for constipation?
Drink plenty of water, eat high-fiber foods, and use fiber supplements if recommended. Avoid straining because constipation can increase pain.
When should I call after surgery?
Call if you develop fever, chills, worsening redness or swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, unusual wound drainage, persistent nausea or vomiting, urinary symptoms, cough, trouble breathing, or chest pain.
