After hernia surgery: movement, rest and aftercare

How quickly you can bear strain again after hernia surgery depends on the type of operation, the size and location of the hernia and the patient's constitution. Inguinal hernia surgery or the repair of a small umbilical hernia must be assessed differently from a larger incisional hernia reconstruction.

Before your discharge, you receive personal recommendations on movement, wound care and physical strain. Even after the treatment has been completed, I remain available for your questions.

Appointments for both practices: +43 1 40180 7010 · Surgery dates and medical questions: +43 680 330 11 45

Early movement is desirable

Walking and light everyday activity are usually possible – and indeed desirable – just a few hours after the operation. Getting up regularly and walking short distances support your return to everyday life. Prolonged bed rest is generally not necessary if recovery is uncomplicated.

Increase your activity step by step and in line with the recommendations for your operation.

What symptoms are to be expected at first?

In the first few days, mild wound pain in the area of the incisions or puncture sites as well as a pulling sensation or feeling of tension in the operated region may occur. You receive pain management tailored to your needs.

Minor bruising and temporary swelling are possible. Wound fluid can collect in the wound cavity under the skin – a so-called seroma. These side effects usually subside by themselves.

After larger abdominal wall reconstructions, swelling may last longer. If drains are inserted, they carry blood and wound secretions away from the wound area. Discharge takes place after they have been removed.

Showering and wound care

The skin incisions are closed with sutures and covered with shower-proof dressings. Before discharge, I explain how to handle the dressings and what to pay attention to when showering.

Bathing and swimming are only possible once the wounds have completely healed. At the follow-up check, I assess wound healing and remove the skin sutures.

When can I return to work?

This depends on your operation and your occupation. Sedentary work can often be resumed earlier than physically demanding work. After a larger abdominal wall reconstruction, a longer recovery period is usually required.

We discuss together when you can return and whether a temporary adjustment of your duties makes sense.

When can I do sport again?

Walks and light everyday activity are usually possible just a few hours after the operation.

After umbilical hernia surgery and TAPP, light sporting activities such as jogging, swimming and cycling are possible again after about two weeks if healing is uncomplicated. A prerequisite for swimming is a completely healed wound. More strenuous activity can usually be resumed after about four to six weeks.

After a larger incisional hernia reconstruction, you receive recommendations tailored to the specific operation.

How long must I avoid heavy lifting?

After incisional hernia surgery, you should not lift or carry loads of more than ten kilograms for about four to six weeks. How long this restriction applies depends on the extent of the reconstruction and on how your healing progresses.

For other hernia operations, we discuss the limits on physical strain individually.

Should I wear an abdominal binder?

After incisional hernia surgery, I recommend that most patients wear an abdominal binder for about four weeks. It supports the abdominal wall and can make movement more comfortable in the first phase of healing. You receive advice on fit and daily wearing time before discharge.

Personal follow-up check

At the follow-up check, I assess wound healing, remove the skin sutures and discuss further increases in physical activity with you.

Even after the treatment has been completed and the follow-up check has taken place, I remain personally available for your questions.

Frequently asked questions after hernia surgery

When can I drive again?

You should only drive yourself again once you can move sufficiently free of pain, react safely and perform an emergency stop. After anaesthesia, the instructions of the anaesthesia team apply. You must not drive under the influence of medication that impairs your ability to react.

Is a bulge after the operation automatically a new hernia?

No. Particularly after TAPP surgery, a visible bulge can develop in the area of the former hernia, giving the impression of a new hernia. As a rule, this is a seroma – a usually harmless collection of wound fluid that subsides by itself in most patients. At the follow-up check, I can assess the cause of the bulge.

Does the mesh need to be checked or removed later?

The mesh is intended to remain in place permanently. Routine removal is not necessary. Once the sutures have been removed, routine check-ups are generally not necessary.

Can a hernia recur after the operation?

Yes. Even after carefully performed hernia surgery, a hernia can develop again. This is called a recurrence. The choice of the appropriate surgical procedure and, where necessary, mesh reinforcement are intended to keep this risk as low as possible.

Information on treatment by Priv. Doz. Dr. Emanuel Sporn – specialist in surgery, visceral surgery and vascular surgery, specialist in hernia surgery in Vienna.