What to do after inguinal hernia surgery

  Many patients are discharged from the hospital on the second or third day after inguinal hernia surgery. Because of the early discharge, there are often concerns and patients often ask their doctors, “What should I pay attention to after surgery? Is there anything I should avoid eating? When can I exercise? When can I go to work? When can I go hiking or running?” In response to these common questions, here is a unified answer, such as: Nowadays, more and more patients are using laparoscopic minimally invasive hernia repair. For patients with inguinal hernia, I usually discharge patients on the second day after laparoscopic hernia surgery, and some patients are discharged on the third day because they may have concerns. After inguinal hernia surgery, especially after minimally invasive laparoscopic hernia (TAPP, or TEP) surgery, antibiotic anti-inflammatory treatment is usually not required.  Regarding diet: there are also usually no special dietary restrictions after surgery and a normal diet is possible.  With regard to exercise and activity: for the postoperative period after minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, the decision is based on the patient’s own experience and the physician’s recommendation for same-day discharge. How many patients can resume normal activities one week after surgery and resume exercise after two weeks.  About stitch removal and bathing: It is recommended to remove stitches seven days after surgery and take a bath the day after stitch removal.  In addition, after surgery, you should eat more vegetables and fruits and foods containing more fiber to keep the bowels open and avoid the occurrence of constipation, and if necessary, you can take oral laxative drugs to assist in bowel movement.  Avoid coughing and bronchitis caused by cold and flu after surgery, and quit smoking as much as possible.