Discharge Instructions for Open Hernia Repair

You had a procedure called open hernia repair. Also called a rupture, a hernia is a tear or weakness in the wall of the belly. This weakness may be present at birth. Or it can be caused by the wear and tear of daily living. Hernias may get worse with time or with physical stress. But surgery can help repair the weakness and eliminate symptoms.

Activity after surgery

Recommendations include the following:

• After surgery, take it easy for the rest of the day. If you had general anesthesia, don’t use machinery or power tools, drink alcohol, or make any major decisions for at least the first 24 hours.

• Don’t drive while you are still taking opioid pain medicine, and don’t drive until you are able to step firmly on the brake pedal without hesitation.

• Ask others to help with chores and errands while you recover.

• Don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds until your healthcare provider says it’s OK.

• Don’t mow the lawn, use a vacuum cleaner, or do other strenuous activities until your healthcare provider says it’s OK.

• Walk as often as you feel able.

• Continue the coughing and deep breathing exercises that you learned in the hospital.

• Ask your healthcare provider when you can expect to return to work.

• Avoid constipation:

  • Eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

  • Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day, unless otherwise instructed.

  • Use a laxative or a mild stool softener as instructed by your healthcare provider.

Bandage and incision care

Tips include the following:

• Do not get the bandage or wound wet for 48 hours.

• If strips of tape were used to close your incision, don’t pull them off. Let them fall off on their own.

• Remove any gauze bandage in 48 hours.

• Wash your incision with mild soap and water. Pat it dry. Don’t use oils, powders, or lotions on your incision. Do not soak your incision or take tub baths until cleared by your healthcare provider.

Follow-up care

Keep follow-up appointments during your recovery. These allow your healthcare provider to check your progress and make sure you’re healing well. You may also need to have your stitches, staples, or bandage removed. During office visits, tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms. And be sure to ask any questions you have.