Laparoscopic Hernia Repair is one of the best advancements in the management of hernia. In expert hands, the recovery of hernia is quite fast and assosiated with minimum morbidity. However, you will be surprised to know that their are various laparoscopic techniques for the management of hernia which depends upon the size and site of hernia.
The recovery process may vary depending upon the technique deployed for the management of hernia, size of hernia and the experitise of surgeon. Laparoscopic hernia repair is a less invasive procedure but many of patients have queries regarding post-operation care as well as the point when they would be able to go back to their routine.
In this article, Dr. Kapil Agrawal, one of the best laparoscopic surgeon in Delhi, answers some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the post operative hernia care and resumption of normal duties after laparoscopic hernia repair. however, you must ask your surgeon for the final recommendations following hernia repair.
How long should I stay in bed after laparoscopic surgery for hernia repair?
We do not recommend any bed rest for our patients undergoing a laparoscopic hernia repair procedure. We encourage our patients to walk after a few hours of surgery. we allow our patients to walk as much as possible after 24 hours of surgery but they must avoid heavy activity for a few days.
When can I begin to walk up the stairs?
We encourage our patients to statt climbing stairs from the very next day of surgery. However, to avoid putting too much strain on yourself, you must do in intervals.
When can I start taking a bath?
We apply completely water proof dressing on the operative site. This allows all our patients to bath from the next day of surgery. However, it is important to keep the area dry to avoid infection at the operative site. In case you have received a different type of surgical dressing, you must follow your surgeon's order concerning when to take a shower and remove the dressings..
How long after surgery am I able to go to the gym?.
We usually recommend our patients to avoid sternous exercises for a minimum period of 4 to 6 weeks. However, the period can be increased in case of extremely large or complex hernia where heavy gym exercises need to be curtailed for more than 2 months. Until then, moderate to intense activities like heavy lifting or vigorous exercise should be avoided. Light exercises like walking or stretching should be incorporated slowly before vigorous activities..
What activities can I do after walking?.
Walking is permitted only a few hours after surgery is done. Doing so helps blood circulation within the body, helping to get rid of blood clots, as well as speeding up the recovery time. You should take small walks to start then as you feel more comfortable, you can begin to walk longer distances..
How soon will I be able to start driving after surgery?.
We usually tell our patients to begin driving after a period of 7 to 10 days after laparoscopic hernia repair. This is of course only possible if they are not under heavy pain medication and are able to make quick movements when necessary. Always check with your medical practitioner before resuming driving.
For how long do I have to take medicines after undergoing a laparoscopic hernia surgery?.
Pain medication is recommend ed for three to five days after surgery. In some cases, antibiotics might be needed for a short period of time to reduce the chances of infections. Always make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions and complete the medication as prescribed.
When can I lift heavy items?
You can start lifting heavy lifting items after four to six weeks of your surgery. Returning to normal activities too quickly could increase the chances of complications or a repeat hernia. Light exercises can be attempted but should be increased slowly based on the advice of the surgeon.
Is it necessary for me to return for the removal of stitches?
In laparoscopic hernia repair, stitches are usually dissolvable, and therefore do not need to be removed. If non-dissolving stitches or staples are placed, we will remove the stitches after 7 days of surgery.
Dr Kapil Agrawal is one of the best hernia surgeon in delhi. He is well-renowned and highly experienced laparoscopic surgeon.
He has performed more than 2000 advanced laparoscopic hernia repairs with excellent outcomes.
He is known for his ability to perform all types of laparoscopic hernia repair including abdominal wall reconstruction for complex hernias.
He is associalted with some of the best hospitals for hernia surgery and these hospitals have state of the art facilities for the managment of even the complex hernias.