Discharge Instructions for Laparoscopic Hernia Repair

You had a procedure called laparoscopic hernia repair. Also called a rupture, a hernia results from a tear or weakness in a muscle in the abdomen. During laparoscopic hernia surgery, a surgeon inserts a telescope attached to a camera as well as surgical instruments through tiny incisions in your abdomen. The surgeon repairs the hernia with a mesh, which patches the tear or weakness in the muscle.

Home Care

• Don’t be alarmed if your shoulder is tight or your neck is stiff for 24–48 hours after your surgery. This is common and usually temporary.

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

• Avoid constipation:

  • Eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

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

  • Use a laxative or a mild stool softener if your doctor says it’s okay.

• Wash your incision with mild soap and water. Pat it dry. Don’s use oils, powders, or lotions on your incision.

• Shower as usual.

Activity

• Ask your doctor when you can start driving again. This is usually as soon as you are free from pain medication and able to move comfortably from side to side. Don’t drive while you are still taking narcotic pain medication.

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

• Don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds until your doctor says it’s okay.

• Don’t mow the lawn, use a vacuum cleaner, or do other strenuous activities until your doctor says it's okay.

• Climb stairs slowly and pause after every few steps.

• Walk as often as you feel able.

Follow-Up

Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.