The short answer is, yes, you should be ok after hernia surgery. Hernia surgery typically has a high success rate, and most people experience little to no complications following the procedure. Depending on the type of hernia you have, recovery time may vary.
Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks for the hernia to heal and for the surgical incision to close. During the healing process, you should expect some pain and discomfort in the area of your surgery, but it should gradually subside as your body heals.
You should follow your surgeon’s instructions, including any instructions for post-surgical care such as wound care, physical therapy, rest or activity limitations. You can also take over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as long as they do not interfere with other medications you may be taking.
Also, be sure to contact your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms, as they may indicate a complication that requires medical attention: increasing pain, fever, redness or swelling of the surgical site, or discharge from the incision.
With proper post-operative care, you should be able to recover from your hernia surgery without significant problems.
Can a person be normal after hernia surgery?
Yes, a person can be normal after hernia surgery. The goal of hernia surgery is to return the patient to a normal, healthy anatomy. In most cases, patients can return to work and other normal activities soon after a hernia surgery, depending on the severity of the hernia and the type of hernia repair performed.
Most hernia operations are minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, meaning that the incision area is relatively small and recovery time is much shorter. Patients may experience some soreness or tightness around the incision area, but this should resolve fairly quickly and won’t impair normal activities.
Most hernia repairs are very successful at relieving hernia symptoms, such as pain and discomfort. Though some people experience a recurrence of a hernia, if a patient follows his or her doctor’s post-operative instructions closely and avoids activities that may strain the operated area, the risk of recurrence is much lower.
Does hernia surgery have long term effects?
Yes, hernia surgery can have long-term effects. Generally, hernia surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can permanently fix the hernia and prevent further complications from occurring. However, there are some possible long-term effects of hernia surgery such as chronic pain, infection, and recurrence of the hernia.
Patients may experience chronic pain at the surgical site even after the hernia has been repaired. This chronic pain may be caused by nerve damage during the procedure, adhesions, or even scar tissue.
It is important for patients to discuss this with their doctor to find the best treatment option.
Infection is another risk associated with hernia surgery. Patients should follow their doctor’s instructions for pre-op and post-op care to help reduce the risk of infection.
Finally, there is always a risk of the hernia reoccurring after surgery. This is known as a recurrent hernia and can be caused by thinning of the hernia tissue due to aging, weight gain, or a traumatic event.
It is important to maintain a healthy weight and lifting habits to reduce the chance of a recurrent hernia.
Overall, hernia surgery is a safe and effective procedure but can have long-term effects. It is important to discuss any concerns or questions with your doctor prior to and after the surgery. Regular follow-ups with your doctor can also help to ensure that your hernia stays healed and does not become a recurrent problem.
Will my stomach shrink after hernia repair?
Yes, your stomach will likely shrink after hernia repair, but the exact amount may depend on the specific type of hernia and the size of the hernia. Hernias occur when a part of the intestine or abdominal wall, called the hernia sac, breaks through the muscle wall, creating a visible bulge.
During a hernia repair, your surgeon will generally push the protruding intestines or other tissue back into place and then stitch the muscle wall closed. Depending on the size and type of the hernia, leaving too much tissue or intestine outside the muscle wall can cause ongoing pain and further complications, so your surgeon might need to remove a portion of the hernia sac in order to ensure a safe and effective repair.
By removing a portion of the hernia sac, which can be made up of stomach tissue, your stomach should be able to return to its normal size. The exact amount it will shrink will depend on the size of the hernia and how much tissue your surgeon must remove to make the repair.
Additionally, if the hernia repair involves changes to the shape of the abdominal wall, the stomach should return to its normal position and size more quickly. Taking steps to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle can help the stomach return to its normal size and function more quickly.
Which symptom is common after hernia surgery?
A common symptom after hernia surgery is postoperative pain. This pain is typically localized to the surgical site and is typically mild. However, sometimes the pain can be moderate or severe in some cases.
Other common symptoms after hernia surgery include soreness, itching and swelling in the area of the surgery, a feeling of tightness around the surgical site, and numbness or tingling around the wound.
In some cases, nausea, vomiting, or a fever can also occur. It is important to talk to a doctor if any of these symptoms persist for more than a few days, or if the pain becomes severe. Additionally, follow-up appointments with the doctor are generally recommended soon after the surgery to ensure that the wound is healing properly.
How long does it take for hernia mesh to heal?
The amount of time it takes for a hernia mesh to heal depends on a variety of factors, including the type of mesh used, the type of hernia, and the patient’s general health and lifestyle. Generally, it is estimated to take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks for a hernia mesh to fully heal.
The healing process typically begins with an initial period of inflammation and soreness that gradually decreases over the course of the healing process. Depending on the patient’s condition, they may be able to feel the mesh settling into position within 2-3 weeks, however healing may take longer depending on the progression of the hernia and body’s response to the mesh.
It’s important to note that healing can be disrupted if the patient fails to follow their doctor’s orders and lifestyle recommendations, so it’s important to follow their instructions closely in order to ensure a full recovery.
Is it normal to still feel a bulge after hernia surgery?
Yes, it is normal to still feel some bulging after hernia surgery. This is because the muscles and tendons of the abdominal wall must heal and readjust to their new position, which can take several weeks or months.
Additionally, the fascia from the surgery may cause some extra bulging in the area. If the bulge or hernia does not go away, or if it is accompanied by any pain or discomfort, it is best to call your doctor for an evaluation and treatment, as a hernia can become more serious if left untreated.
What are the cons of hernia surgery?
Hernia surgery carries a number of risks, some of which may include infection, post-operative pain, and recurrence of hernia.
Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection after hernia surgery. The risk of infection depends upon the patient’s overall health, the type of procedure they undergo, and the age and general health of the patient.
Post-operative pain: Most people experience pain after hernia surgery, which may be moderate or severe. This pain can last for several days after the procedure and requires pain medication to manage.
Recurrence of hernia: Although hernia surgery corrects the weakened area, there is a risk of the hernia recurring over time. This risk can be higher depending on the severity of the hernia or if the surgery is not done properly.
Scarring: In some cases, hernia surgery may leave a scar, depending on the type of procedure and the area of the body where the hernia is located.
Long-term complications: Some patients may experience long-term complications such as chronic pain, abdominal wall weakness, and difficulty urinating.
Anesthesia risks: As with any surgery, there are risks associated with the anesthesia used during hernia surgery, although these risks are generally low.
Overall, the most important thing is to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor before undergoing any hernia surgery. It is also important to choose a qualified and experienced hernia surgeon who can advise you on the best type of procedure to undergo.
Is hernia surgery a permanent fix?
The answer depends on the type of hernia and the type of surgery. For the most part, hernia surgeries can provide a permanent fix. However, some types of hernia or some forms of hernia surgery may not provide a permanent solution.
For example, inguinal hernias can often be treated with laparoscopic surgery, which should provide a permanent fix. On the other hand, umbilical hernias can often be treated through an open procedure, which may not be permanent.
Moreover, leaving certain types of hernias untreated can put the patient at risk of them recurring or getting worse over time. Therefore, it is important to consult with a doctor to determine the best course of action.
Is hernia surgery considered high risk?
Hernia surgery is typically considered to be a low-risk surgery, however, there are still risks involved. The risk of complications from hernia surgery depends on the type of technique used, the individual’s overall health, and the specific type of hernia.
Potential risks of hernia surgery can include bleeding, infection, adhesions or scar tissue, or a reaction to the anesthesia used.
In addition, patients with certain types of hernia, such as inguinal hernias, may be at an increased risk for complications due to the large size and location of the hernia. Because of this, it is important to consult with an experienced surgeon before electing to undergo hernia surgery, to assess the likelihood of any potential risks associated with the procedure.
Can hernia cause long term damage?
Yes, hernia can cause long-term damage if left untreated. Hernias can cause reduced blood supply to the intestine, leading to tissue death and the formation of an abscess. In some cases, intestines can become trapped in the hernia and be “strangulated,” preventing blood flow to the area, which can cause long-term health complications such as gangrene or sepsis.
This can be severe enough to require removal of a portion of the intestine. To prevent long-term damage, it is important to seek medical treatment if a hernia is present. If a hernia is not repairable, a hernia belt may be recommended to reduce pressure in the area, or other lifestyle changes such as weight loss or avoiding heavy lifting may be suggested.