The first few days
Most hernia repairs are same-day surgery. Expect soreness at the incision and some swelling or bruising. Pain medicine, ice packs and short, frequent walks help. Men sometimes notice scrotal swelling after groin hernia repair; it settles over one to two weeks.
Week one
- Walking and light household activity are encouraged
- Most people are off prescription pain medicine within a few days
- Driving is usually fine once you can brake hard without pain and are off opioid medicine
- Showering is usually allowed within a day or two
Returning to work
People with desk jobs often return within one to two weeks. Physically demanding jobs usually require four to six weeks, or light duty in the meantime. Large ventral or incisional hernia repairs may take longer.
Talk with Dr. Arsenous about your options.
Lifting and exercise
Lifting limits are typically recommended for about four to six weeks while the repair heals. Light exercise such as walking and stationary cycling can often resume after two weeks. Your surgeon will give you specific limits for your repair.
Laparoscopic vs. open
Laparoscopic repair often means a little less pain early on and a slightly faster return to activity. Long-term results are similar for most patients. Read more in laparoscopic vs. open hernia repair.
When to call the office
Call for fever above 101°F, increasing redness or drainage from the incision, pain that is getting worse rather than better, inability to urinate, or persistent vomiting.