Inguinal hernia repair may be a standard procedure in the operating room, but it is still a surgical procedure nonetheless, and you more than likely want to make sure that you can recover from it as quickly as possible. If you have an inguinal hernia and have been recommended for surgery, your body will need rest and ample time to recover so you can go back to your normal or regular routine in no time. Even though inguinal hernia repair using laparoscopic surgery has a faster recovery period compared to open surgery, you will still have to take care of yourself and avoid certain activities that may hamper your recovery. If you want to recover from your surgery in the best possible time, here’s your ultimate guide to recovering quickly from inguinal hernia surgery.
The basics of your recovery: what you need to know
After your inguinal hernia surgery, you may have some pain for several days, and you may even feel like you are having the flu or fever, and this is confirmed by inguinal hernia surgery London experts like The London Surgical Group. You may also feel nauseated and tired – but this is all common. You are supposed to feel much better in about seven days, although for a few weeks onwards, you may still feel a slight twinge or pull in your groin area whenever you move. Men, in particular, may also have some bruising on their penis or scrotum area.
How you can properly take care of yourself
- Your activities
When it comes to your activities, remember first and foremost to rest as soon as you feel tired. You may take a shower about a day or two after your inguinal hernia surgery, but only if your physician approves it. When you take a shower, pat your incision to dry it and avoid rubbing it, as the hernia surgery London specialists from The London Surgical Group recommend. It’s best to avoid having a bath, especially in the succeeding two weeks after the operation or until you have had an okay from your physician.
You should also allow the affected area to promptly heal by not moving quickly and avoiding lifting heavy objects. It pays to be active, but don’t go for an activity that is too strenuous – walking is always a good option. In general, you may be able to return to various light activities in one week to three weeks, based on the kind of inguinal hernia repair you have had.
- Your diet
Your diet matters as well if you would like a quick recovery. You can consume food that you normally eat, but if you have an upset stomach, you can try blander foods that are low in fat, such as broiled chicken, plain rice, yoghurt, and toast. If you have irregular bowel movements after your surgery, you should try to avoid straining yourself. Make sure to drink lots of liquids. Your specialist may recommend fibre, a mild laxative, or a stool softener.
- Caring for your incision
Your incision will have a dressing over it, and this dressing will protect the incision and help it heal. The specialist will give you specific instructions on caring for it, but in general, wash the incision daily using warm, soapy water, and don’t use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide as it can slow the healing process.