Is hernia surgery a major surgery?

Open hernia repair is a major surgery that's performed with the aid of general anesthesia or local anesthesia and sedation. It's done through one or two standard-sized incisions (three to six inches in length) that allow the surgeon to fully visualize and access the problematic area.


Is hernia surgery considered serious?

As with all surgeries, hernia repair involves risks and potential complications. Complications may become serious and life threatening in some cases. Complications can develop during the procedure or recovery.

Is hernia surgery a big deal?

When you undergo open surgery, keep in mind that this is considered a major surgery. You will have local anesthesia administered at the surgical site, as well as sedation if needed. After this is done, a large incision is made in order to allow surgeons to reach the hernia.


Is hernia repair a high risk surgery?

This type of operation is normally very safe. But like all surgeries, having your hernia removed comes with a number of possible complications. They include: Infection of the wound.

How long does it take to recover from major hernia surgery?

Most people are able to return to work within 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. But if your job requires that you do heavy lifting or strenuous activity, you may need to take 4 to 6 weeks off from work. You may shower 24 to 48 hours after surgery, if your doctor okays it.


Hernia Repair with Michael Perez, MD, General Surgeon



How long is bed rest after hernia surgery?

Fullington perform (for inguinal, umbilical, and small incisional hernias) is about 2 weeks. Many patients feel well enough to perform normal daily activities – including driving and return to work – after only a couple of days, but we restrict patient activity for 2 weeks to allow for adequate healing.

How painful is hernia surgery?

After hernia repair surgery, it is common to experience mild to moderate pain and to feel a little run down. It's also normal to feel pulling or twinges in the affected area as you heal. Most people, however, feel better within a few days and much better within a week of surgery.

How long does a hernia surgery take?

The operation usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes to complete and you'll usually be able to go home on the same day. Some people stay in hospital overnight if they have other medical problems or live on their own.


Can you live a normal life after hernia surgery?

After hernia mesh surgery, most patients can go home the same day. Full recovery time may take four to six weeks. Right after surgery, patients should perform only necessary daily functions but can return to light activity after a few weeks of recovery. Heavy activity can resume after six weeks.

Can you go back to normal life after hernia surgery?

Typically it takes 4-5 days for most people to feel good enough after this type of surgery to then resume their normal, day to day activities, and usually about 7-10 days before they feel like going back to work.

How soon can I walk after hernia surgery?

There are no medical or physical restrictions on activity after surgery. That means it is OK to walk, climb stairs, lift, have sexual intercourse, mow the lawn, or exercise as long as it doesn't hurt. In fact, returning to normal activity as soon as possible will most likely enhance your recovery.


How long do you stay in hospital after hernia surgery?

Hospital Stay

Plan to stay in the hospital as an inpatient 5 – 7 days after your procedure. Depending on the size of your hernia, at times you will spend the initial night after surgery in the intensive care unit.

Does hernia repair last a lifetime?

How Long Does Hernia Mesh Repair Last? The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that hernia mesh is a permanent implant. It means that once implanted; it is not designed to be removed. The FDA also states that hernia mesh should last a lifetime.

What is the survival rate of hernia surgery?

Overall SMR was 1.4 (95% confidence interval, 1.2-1.6) for men and 4.2 (95% confidence interval, 3.2-5.4) for women, in accordance with a greater proportion of emergency operations among women compared with men, 17.0%, versus 5.1%. Conclusions: Mortality risk following elective hernia repair is low, even at high age.


Can you live a long time with a hernia?

Absolutely Yes! If your hernia is not causing pain or discomfort – it is possible to live with your hernia. One must remember that there is a risk of an emergency (incarceration or strangulation) from any hernia. A painless hernia typically (but not always) will start causing discomfort prior to an emergency.

Do people survive hernia surgery?

A study published by the NCBI states that the mortality rate following elective surgery hernia repair (hernia operation in a non-emergency condition) is low, even if the patient belongs to elderly age. On the other hand, an emergency operation for a groin hernia carries a substantial mortality risk.

How soon can you drive after hernia surgery?

Since you will be given general anesthesia, it is recommended that you wait 24-48 hours before driving at minimum. If your hernia is located in an area where driving may place abnormal strain on it, you may be asked to wait a couple more days before getting behind the wheel.


How many weeks after hernia surgery can you drive?

Normally, you should refrain from driving for at least 1 week after a hernia repair operation. You should be free from the distracting effect of pain or the sedative or other effects of any pain relief medication you are taking.

Will I lose weight after hernia surgery?

Patients are counseled that they will likely lose 10–15 pounds during the first 4–6 weeks after surgery before the nadir of weight loss (2).

How much does it cost to have a hernia surgery?

How much does hernia repair surgery cost? The average cost of hernia repair surgery—with or without mesh—in the United States is $7,750, though prices can range from $3,900 to $12,500. The average cost for an inpatient hernia repair is $11,500, while the average cost for an outpatient procedure is $6,400.


How do you sit after hernia surgery?

Back up to the chair until your legs touch the chair. Lean your upper body forward. Place your hands on your thighs for stability. Bend your knees and squat down slowly until you are sitting in the chair.

What is the fastest way to recover from hernia surgery?

How can you care for yourself at home?
  1. Rest when you feel tired.
  2. You may shower 24 to 48 hours after surgery, if your doctor okays it. Pat the incision dry. ...
  3. Allow the area to heal. ...
  4. Be active. ...
  5. You most likely can return to light activity after 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the type of surgery you had.


Is it hard to walk after hernia surgery?

You don't need to begin a walking regiment right after you get home, but most people feel comfortable enough to walk at a very slow rate after a few days. Every situation is different though so take your time. If you don't feel comfortable walking until after about a week, then you should wait that long.


What happens if a hernia is left untreated?

If hernia is left untreated, the size of protruding intestine might get bigger and become strangulated leading to the reduction of blood flow to surrounding tissue.

Are you awake for hernia surgery?

Overview. If you need a hernia repair, you may be asked whether you'd prefer to have it done while you are awake or asleep. This is an important factor to discuss before your operation with your anesthesiologist, who will talk to you about the best way to control your pain.