Properly healing after hernia surgery is just as important as the surgery itself. You must make sure you do not stress the surgical area, as this may cause tearing which will need to be repaired with another surgery. According to the American College of Surgeons, hernia repair surgery takes several weeks to fully take hold, and you must make your recovery as smooth as possible. Recurrence rates for these types of surgeries are usually only 1 to 5 percent if the patient recovers smoothly from the first surgery.
Step 1
Avoid all activities which might stress the surgical site, returning to regular activities very gradually. For the first few days, do nothing but rest. Return to work after a week, but do not attempt any heavy lifting. Resume sports activities after two weeks of recovery time, again very gradually. Do not lift anything over 20 lbs. until the site has had plenty of time to heal.
Step 2
Wear an abdominal support, which is an elastic band that supports your entire stomach. Abdominal supports are often used after Cesarean section surgery, so if you go to your local pharmacy and ask they will know what you are talking about. Do not bind yourself too tightly because you must make sure blood is flowing to the surgery site at all times.
Step 3
Avoid scar tissue as much as possible. Once the open wound has closed (usually within two or three days), massage the area gently with the tips of your fingers, applying as little pressure as possible at first. Continue to massage more vigorously as time goes on for at least three weeks after surgery. Only use lotions and oils if they make you more comfortable; they are not really necessary.
Step 4
Strengthen your body through proper diet and nutrition. As soon as you know you will be having the surgery, begin taking a quality multivitamin and extra vitamin C to build up your immune system. Eat properly (high-fiber diet) and take a multivitamin every day. Surgery is just one small step; your body will continue to heal for many weeks and will need all the strength you can give it.
Tips and Warnings
- You may be feeling better, but remember that your hernia was caused by weak muscles. These muscles need plenty of time and rest to repair themselves.
- If you experience trouble urinating or moving your bowels, contact your doctor. Numbness is common after any type of surgery. If numbness lasts for more than six weeks after your hernia surgery, let your doctor know. Rarely, the surgery may damage muscles or organs near the herniated area. If you experience pain near the site, contact your doctor.
Things You'll Need
- Elastic abdominal support
- Multivitamin
- Vitamin C supplements
