How Long Will My Stomach Be Swollen After Hernia Surgery?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Since normal swelling after surgery is part of the healing process, the body can take three to six months to get rid of the swelling.

Why is my stomach bigger after hernia surgery?

A swelling after abdominal wall repair can be caused by bulging of the mesh . A progressive bulging might be the result of failure of the mesh implant due to elongation. Mesh characteristics should be considered when choosing a feasible and suitable mesh for abdominal wall reconstruction.

Does stomach swell after hernia surgery?

Swelling at surgical sites is normal ; this will often feel like a firm ridge. Abdominal bloating is common.

How long does it take for hernia mesh to heal?

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.

Will hernia repair flatten my stomach?

Not only will it decrease the chance of a hernia recurrence, but will improve your core strength, stop post-pregnancy bulging due to abdominal wall laxity, and create a flatter, more functional muscular abdomen.

How do you know if your hernia repair failed?

Mesh used for hernia repair surgery has a high failure rate that can cause serious complications for patients, even years after the implant. Seven common signs and symptoms of hernia mesh failure include bulging, burning, constipation, impotent and sexual dysfunction, nausea, lethargy, and pain .

How can I strengthen my stomach after hernia surgery?

  1. Step 1: Lie on your back.
  2. Step 2: Bend your knees, keeping your feet on the floor or bed.
  3. Step 3: Breathe in.
  4. Step 4: As you exhale, bring your belly button towards your spine, activating your abdominal muscles.
  5. Step 5: Hold for a few seconds.
  6. Step 6: Relax and return to normal breathing.

What is the best position to sleep after hernia surgery?

At first you may need to rest in bed with your upper body raised on pillows . This helps you breathe easier and may help lessen post-surgery hernia pain. Cold and Heat: Both cold and heat can help lessen some types of post-op pain.

Can I push to poop after hernia surgery?

DO NOT LIFT, PUSH OR PULL MORE THAN 15 lbs. or use your abdominal muscles for 6 weeks after surgery . This allows time for your incisions to heal and reduces the risk of recurrent hernia formation.

What is the fastest way to recover from hernia surgery?

Gentle exercise, such as walking , can help you heal faster. Avoid lifting anything heavy or performing strenuous activities for at least four weeks. Sexual intercourse is permitted when you feel ready—generally, around two to three weeks post-surgery.

Will my belly button go back to normal after hernia surgery?

The weak spot is usually closed with stitches, but if the hernia is large, mesh may be used to strengthen the area. After the operation, the bulge will disappear and the belly button should look normal .

Why did I gain weight after hernia surgery?

The most common cause of weight gain after surgery is fluid retention , also known as postoperative edema. Edema occurs when extra fluid builds up in your body to respond to inflammation and promote healing. It may also be caused by intravenous (IV) fluids given during surgery.

Can a hernia make your stomach big?

A strangulated intestinal hernia may result in intestinal obstruction , causing the abdomen to swell.

How often do hernia repairs fail?

Traditional hernia repairs that simply stitch the hernia closed and do not use mesh have the highest rate of recurrence. It is estimated that up to 30% of such repairs can recur . This is because the tissue around the suture can weaken over time and abdominal stress can eventually cause the tissue to tear.

What percentage of hernia repairs fail?

The incidence of recurrent hernia after primary repair of a groin hernia varies from 1% in specialized centers to 30% in general surveys. During the premesh era, it was estimated that primary inguinal hernia repairs had a 10%–30% recurrence rate and that the rate was 35% for recurrent hernia repairs.

What happens if a hernia repair fails?

One of the risks associated with hernia repair surgery is that the hernia can return. If the hernia repair fails and the hernia reappears , this is referred to as a recurrent hernia.

James Park
Author
James Park
Dr. James Park is a medical doctor and health expert with a focus on disease prevention and wellness. He has written several publications on nutrition and fitness, and has been featured in various health magazines. Dr. Park's evidence-based approach to health will help you make informed decisions about your well-being.