Below we have compiled the most frequently asked questions abour hernia repair recovery. We hope this information will be helpful to you. If you have questions that have not been answered here, please contact us (913) 782-8577.

When Do I Go Home?

Most people will be able to go home the same day after surgery. However, a brief overnight stay may be ordered. Plan accordingly. Someone must drive you home.

Pain Control

You will be given pain medication at the time of surgery and a prescription to fill at the time of discharge. Most of the pain is from bruising or swelling. Medications such as Motrin, Advil and Ibuprophen are very helpful after these operations. Two or three tablets every six hours during the first five days after surgery is recommended. If you are allowed to take this medication you should do so. You may alternatively be given a prescription for Vioxx. Resume all the medications you were taking before surgery unless otherwise instructed.

Dressing Changes/Wound Care

You may be given an elastic abdominal binder to wear after surgery. Its purpose is to compress the skin over the old hernia site to prevent the accumulation of fluid under the skin. This will improve the cosmetic result. Often we will place a roll of gauze over the hernia to aid in compression. It is OK to remove the binder and gauze to shower on the day after surgery.

You will generally have one large or two to four small incisions. Bruising and tenderness in these areas is not uncommon. A small amount of drainage may occur from these incisions in the first 24 hours. Increasing tenderness with continued drainage is not typical and should be reported to your surgeon's office. Antibiotic ointments and "skin lotions" are not required for care of the incisions. Daily washing with mild soap and water is all that is necessary. The band-aids can be removed after 24 hours but leave the underlying tape on the skin to achieve the best cosmetic result.

Diet/Bowel Function After Surgery

Bowel activity after abdominal surgery can be highly variable. Constipation, diarrhea, mild nausea and occasional vomiting can occur. They result from variable responses to antibiotics, pain medicines and manipulation of bowel. Most problems are mild and resolve in 24-48 hours if they occur. During this time good oral intake of non-caffeinated liquids is more important than solid food.

How will I know what I can and cannot do after surgery?

A Day Surgery nurse will review your physician’s discharge instructions with you. We’ll make sure your questions are answered before you leave our medical center.

Post Surgery Care

You will be asked to return to the office for postoperative evaluation 2-3 weeks following your surgery. Do not go to your primary care physician with postoperative problems. Notify our office first. The instructions above are meant to be a guide.

Contact Us

If you should need to contact us our number is (913) 782-8577