Yes, it is normal to still have a bulge after hernia surgery. It can take up to several weeks for the swelling to go down, and the bulge may not completely disappear. Scar tissue can form over the incision area, which can cause the area to feel hard and lumpy.
Some people may notice an indentation in their abdomen where the hernia was once located. After the swelling has gone down, you should be able to feel the new, improved outline of your abdomen. It is very important to wear the hernia support garment that you were given after your surgery to help reduce any swelling.
You may continue to wear it for several months or until your doctor tells you that you don’t need to anymore. It is also recommended that you avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for several weeks post-surgery to allow the incision to heal properly.
How long does the bulge last after hernia surgery?
The duration of bulging after hernia surgery can vary from person to person depending on the severity of the hernia and the type of hernia repair. Generally speaking, a bulge may be present after hernia surgery for up to six weeks while the repaired muscle heals.
Patients are generally instructed not to do any strenuous activity during this time to ensure proper healing, though all activities should be cleared by a surgeon or physician before being performed.
During this period, the patient may need to wear a special support garment or use a hernia belt, to further the healing process. Once the six weeks are up, the majority of patients should no longer experience bulging and can then return to normal activities.
If a bulge persists for more than six weeks without improvement, the patient should contact their doctor to discuss this symptom.
Does a hernia bulge go away?
No, typically a hernia bulge will not go away on its own. A hernia is a tear or weak area in the abdomen muscles that allow abdominal tissue or organs to protrude outward. Depending on the size, location and type of hernia, it may cause pain and discomfort, impede digestion, and if untreated, organs can become twisted or stuck (incarcerated).
Without treatment, hernias may expand and become larger. In order to get relief from a hernia, it must typically be repaired surgically. Most hernias can be successfully repaired, reducing the hernia bulge, addressing the health risks associated with it, and restoring the patient’s quality of life.
How long does it take for hernia mesh to set?
The amount of time it takes for hernia mesh to set depends on various factors, including the type of hernia mesh used, patient factors such as body weight and activity level, as well as the size and location of the hernia.
In most cases, hernia mesh will typically require between one and three weeks to become fully set after implantation. During the healing process, the body’s tissues will naturally grow around the hernia mesh and secure it in place, in what is known as tissue incorporation.
During the initial healing process, it is best to avoid strenuous physical activity and heavy lifting, as this can disturb the hernia mesh as it is trying to set. It is also important to make sure that you follow any and all instructions given by a medical professional during the healing process after hernia mesh implantation, as this will ensure that the mesh is securely in place and allows for a full and successful recovery.
What are the symptoms of a failed hernia repair?
The symptoms of a failed hernia repair can vary depending on the type of hernia and the type of repair that was conducted. In general, common symptoms of a failed hernia repair include persistent pain in the area of the repair, an increased bulge in the area of the repair, nausea, vomiting, and/or fever.
Additionally, individuals with a failed hernia repair may have an overall decrease in their activity level as they may experience considerable pain and/or fatigue while attempting to be physically active.
Additional symptoms can occur if there have been any surgical complications, such as infection or damage to other organs, nerves, or blood vessels.
In general, individuals with a failed hernia repair should make an appointment with their healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss the symptoms, treatment options, and any necessary follow-up care.
Follow-up care may include further diagnostic tests, such as ultrasounds and/or CT scans, in order to better evaluate the area of the repair and if there is any further damage present. Depending on the results of the diagnostic testing, further treatment options may be pursued, including a redo hernia repair or hernia mesh removal, depending on the patient’s individual situation.
How likely is it that a hernia will come back after repair?
The likelihood that a hernia will recur after initial repair depends on many factors, such as the type and size of hernia, the surgical technique used to repair it, patient lifestyle, and any health issues or conditions.
In general, recurrent hernias can occur in up to 25-30% of patients, although this rate may be higher or lower depending on the hernia type and the individual patient. Non-mesh hernia repairs tend to have a higher recurrence rate than those repairs that utilize mesh.
Although associated with a higher recurrence rate, non-mesh repairs are still the preferred technique for younger patients.
If the hernia is recurrent, the recurrence rate may be higher. Specifically, in complex and recurrent hernias, recurrence may be as high as 40-50%.
Therefore, while there is no guarantee that a hernia will not recur after repair, there is evidence that recurrence is actually quite uncommon in most cases. To reduce the risk of recurrent hernias, it is best to follow instructions given by the healthcare provider carefully during and after hernia repair surgery.
Taking measures to reduce strain or pressure on the area, such as abstaining from heavy lifting, can also help prevent a hernia recurrence.
How do I know if my hernia has come back after surgery?
If your hernia has come back after surgery, you may experience certain signs and symptoms. These can include swelling, pain or discomfort in the area of the hernia, a bulge or lump around the surgical incision, difficulty passing stools or passing stools with a feeling of incomplete evacuation, or a painful pressure or burning sensation in the area.
Additionally, if your hernia originally presented with a prior reduction that you can no longer manage, this may be another sign of a recurrence.
If you are concerned that your hernia has come back after surgery, you should see your doctor. Your doctor will perform a physical examination to confirm the diagnosis and discuss further treatment options.
Treatment for recurrent hernias typically involves surgery to repair the affected area and may include the use of special meshes.
Why is my hernia repair bulging?
A hernia repair bulging can be caused by a number of factors. In some cases, a hernia repair bulging can be caused by a weakened abdominal wall, meaning that the muscles and tendons are not strong enough to keep the repaired hernia in place.
If the hernia is not repaired properly, it can cause the hernia to become recurrent. This can cause a hernia to protrude again. Another cause of a hernia repair bulging can be a result of scar tissue.
The scar tissue can build up and weaken the abdominal wall, again, resulting in the hernia protruding. Lastly, some patients may be more prone to hernias due to their anatomical makeup. Smaller or weaker muscles may be unable to support a hernia repair, and can allow the hernia repair to protrude.
If you are concerned that your hernia is bulging, you should see a medical professional for a check-up.
Can a hernia be repaired twice?
Yes, a hernia can be repaired twice, as long as the hernia is large enough, the abdominal wall is strong enough, and the patient is healthy enough to safely undergo a second surgery. Generally, hernia repairs will last between ten to fifteen years, which means that it is possible for a hernia to need repair for a second time, depending on individual circumstance.
The primary goal of any hernia repair is to strengthen the weakened area of the abdominal wall, in order to prevent hernias from recurring. During a hernia repair, a surgeon may use either synthetic mesh or a natural, absorbable layer of tissue to close the weakness in the abdominal wall.
If a hernia repair is performed successfully, the tissue will form a strong bond that remains intact for many years. However, depending on the condition of the abdominal wall, the repaired hernia may re-form or weaken over time, requiring a second repair.
It is important that a patient speak with their doctor about the risks and benefits of a second hernia repair before undergoing any procedure.
How common is hernia repair failure?
Hernia repair failure is not common, but it does happen. It is estimated that about 5-10% of hernia repair procedures will result in recurrence of the hernia. The success of the hernia repair depends on many factors, such as the size, type and location of the hernia, the patient’s health, the type of procedure used, and the quality of care received.
Ideally, hernia repair should result in a permanent solution with no recurrence; however, hernia recurrence is a risk factor, especially if the cause of the hernia is still present. Certain factors that may increase the risk of hernia recurrence include smoking and obesity, as these can cause excessive strain on the abdominal wall and weaken the repair.
To reduce the chances of a hernia recurrence, it is important to seek appropriate medical treatment and to follow the post-operative instructions. If the hernia returns, there are techniques that can be used to try to repair the hernia once again; however, this is not always successful, and an individual may require a more complex surgery such as a mesh repair or robotic surgery.
Overall, 90-95% of hernia repair procedures are successful and do not result in recurrence of the hernia; however, it is important to be aware that hernia repair failure is possible and to seek appropriate follow-up care and follow the post-operative instructions to reduce the risk.
