Hernia Surgery Recovery

As a leading expert in minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, Dr. Shirin Towfigh has been able to reduce the intensity and length of the hernia surgery recovery period. At the same time, recovery from a hernia procedure does take time and is admittedly not always completely comfortable. Fortunately, the recovery period is not too lengthy and there are numerous steps a patient can take to speed the healing process and avoid complications.

As the only surgeon in the Western United States strictly dedicated to abdominal hernia surgery, Dr. Towfigh understands the delicate nature of the recovery period for both men and women. The good news is that, the more time passes, the more hernia symptoms will tend to subside to a significant degree.

Recovery Immediately After a Hernia Procedure

The Beverly Hills Hernia Center provides patients with detailed instructions on self-care during the recovery period. While they differ somewhat for men and women in the case of a femoral hernia near the groin area, one crucial aspect is dealing with post-surgical pain. For most patients, pain management is best handled with ice packs and over-the-counter NSAID pain medications such as naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). If you are given a stronger prescription medication for acute pain, use it only if needed and with caution. You may combine these drugs with naproxen, but not with acetaminophen.

Regarding wound care during the initial hernia recovery period, it is important to keep the dressing and wound dry for the first 48 hours. After that, the dressing should be removed and the covered area exposed to the air. The thin strip of Steri-Strip tape over the incision should remain in place, however. At this time, it is also permissible to shower. You can also begin to resume such normal activities as driving if you are not under the influence of pain medication that might cause impairment.

Throughout your recovery, be sure to eat a healthy, high fiber diet and drink roughly eight cups of water a day. Constipation can be a significant problem during the recovery period because of the risk of straining; consuming plenty of fiber and liquids is therefore crucial.  If constipation is a risk to any degree, you want to be aggressive in preventing it; talk to a doctor or nurse or go to our Amazon Store for recommendations for over-the-counter methods of preventing these issues. To speed recovery, healthy amounts of dietary protein are also recommended.

Recovery During the Weeks Following a Hernia Procedure

Mild to moderate activity is very much encouraged during the longer term hernia repair recovery period. After two weeks, more vigorous physical activities and many sports may be resumed, but consult Dr. Towfigh if your work or exercise routines involve any heavy lifting.

You may also want to alter your habits in regards to certain articles of clothing, such as underwear, during your hernia recovery,depending on the type or surgery you have had. For example, many men switch from boxer shorts to briefs for added support. Also consider investing in athletic underwear or a girdle. If you have problems with urination or other important bodily functions, please let your doctor know immediately. This advice applies to other problems such as pain that is not alleviated by medication, long periods of nausea (more than an hour), vomiting, persistent watery diarrhea, pus draining, or redness/warmth or worsening pain near the incision.

Contact Us

Dr. Shirin Towfigh and the Beverly Hills Hernia Center are known for their ability to ensure a limited and successful recovery time for hernia surgery. If you believe you may require treatment for an abdominal hernia, please contact our offices by calling 310-358-5020 or visiting our contact page.