All of the body's organs are contained within small cavities of space. When part of the organ protrudes through the wall of the cavity, a hernia occurs. Hernias most commonly occur in the abdomen, although they can also occur near the groin. The type of surgery used to correct a hernia depends on the location and severity of the condition. The diet you follow after your hernia surgery depends on the complexity of the surgery.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
For the first 24 to 48 hours after a minimally invasive hernia surgery, your doctor will likely recommend a mostly liquid diet. Your appetite probably will not tolerate much more than liquids for the first day or two. As your appetite increases, slowly add solid foods back into your diet. Rather than eating three large meals, have several small meals throughout the day. Although you might not be asked to follow specific diet "rules" after hernia surgery, it's important to listen to your body. To avoid discomfort, eat only the types and quantities of foods your body can handle. While taking medications after surgery, you should also avoid alcohol.
Open Surgery
Complex hernia surgeries often require a more intricate and restrictive post-surgery diet. UCLA Center for Esophageal Disorders counsels post-surgery patients to follow a clear liquid diet for two weeks after surgery. Clear liquids include anything you can see through, such as water, coffee, juice, gelatin and broth. For the next two weeks, you can have any type of liquid, such as creamy soups, ice cream, milk, creamed cereals and yogurt. During weeks five and six, you can eat soft foods that require little chewing. These foods include mashed potatoes, applesauce, soft fruits, rice, pasta, ground meats and soft fruits and vegetables. If you have no complications, you can go back to your regular diet after the sixth week.
Additional Considerations
After hernia surgery, your abdomen will likely be tender and painful. Avoid foods that could trigger coughing, such as pepper or spicy foods. Although coughing might not be dangerous, it can make you more uncomfortable. Also, avoid any foods you are allergic or sensitive to, as they could cause choking or vomiting.
Constipation is also a common side effect of the medications used during and after hernia surgery. If you experience constipation, eating high-fiber foods and drinking plenty of liquids -- especially water -- can help relieve the blockage. In the case of constipation after hernia surgery, avoid foods high in fat and sugar until the constipation is resolved.
Safety
As with any type of medical advice, there is no one-size-fits-all rule for a post hernia surgery diet. To ensure your health and safety, consult your physician regarding an appropriate diet to follow after surgery. Your physician can help you develop an eating plan that meets your dietary preferences and medical needs.
References
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center: Types of Hernia Surgeries
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center: Types of Hernias
- University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority; Home Care after Laparoscopic Hernia Repair; February 2010
- Virginia Surgery Associates P.C.: Hernia Repair
- UCLA Center for Esophageal Disorders: Preparing for Surgery
