What to expect after surgery

Brisbane Hernia Clinic

Recovery After Hernia Surgery

Most patients experience a rapid recovery after hernia surgery, particularly following laparoscopic (keyhole) repair. While recovery varies between individuals, the majority return to normal activities within days to weeks.

Immediately After Surgery

  • You will wake in the recovery room after your anaesthetic
  • Nausea, mild pain, dizziness, and fatigue are common early symptoms
  • A sore throat may occur for 1–3 days if a breathing tube was used
  • Nursing staff will monitor you and help you mobilise

Most patients are able to stand and walk within 1–2 hours after surgery.

Going Home

You can usually go home once you are:

  • Walking safely
  • Drinking fluids without significant nausea
  • Able to pass urine

Most patients are discharged 3–6 hours after surgery.

Pain and Discomfort

Mild to moderate discomfort is expected for the first few days after surgery.

  • Most patients require only a small amount of pain medication
  • Many transition to simple analgesia such as Panadol within 1–2 days
  • Discomfort usually settles within 2–14 days

Some early groin discomfort may relate to surgical gas, tissue healing, or inflammation.

Wound Care

  • Small keyhole incisions (5–10 mm) are typically used
  • Dressings can usually be removed after 5 days
  • Steri-strips are often removed after 7–10 days
  • Showering is usually allowed from day 1

Activity and Exercise

  • Walking and light activity from the day of surgery
  • Driving after 2–4 days, provided you are not taking strong pain medication
  • Light exercise can usually resume within days
  • Gym activity and lifting more than 10 kg can generally resume after around 2 weeks
  • Heavy lifting jobs may require restriction for up to 6 weeks

Return to Work

Most patients return to work within 3–7 days, depending on the nature of their job and the type of repair performed.

Patients with physically demanding jobs may need longer before returning to unrestricted duties.

Full Recovery

Although recovery is usually rapid, it is sensible to allow up to 2–3 weeks to feel completely back to normal.

Larger or more complex hernia repairs may require a longer recovery period.

Follow-Up and Advice

Follow-up will be arranged after your surgery to make sure your recovery is progressing as expected.

If you have concerns during recovery, our team can provide advice and arrange review if required.

Call Dr Watson
Call A/Professor McGregor