Getting hernia surgery is a big step. However, it is important to let your body fully recover after the surgery. When you get a traditional hernia repair, which is also known as open hernia surgery, you have an incision that pushes the protruding tissue back into place. The surgery seems straightforward, but the healing is important, and you need proper care during this phase.
When you know how long it will take for you to recover, it can help you plan your routine and avoid any complications. Every person has their own experience, and there are different factors that can influence the recovery timeline. In this blog, we will learn how long it usually takes for a person to recover and what factors can affect their healing. So, let’s begin!
What Is Traditional Hernia Repair Surgery?
Traditional hernia repair is a surgical procedure that is used to fix a hernia by making an incision on the affected area. During this treatment, the doctors will gently push the protruding tissues back into their place and strengthen the weak muscle wall. In this procedure, the patient is given local or general anesthesia. Moreover, traditional hernia repair is a safe procedure that can especially treat large hernias, as well as recurrent hernias. This treatment is widely used by doctors because of its success rate.
Typical Healing Time After the Surgery
The healing time can vary from person to person. However, most patients recover in about 6 weeks. Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the first few days. You can return to light activities after your first week, but you must not lift anything heavy. If you have a desk job, you can return to your job after 2 weeks. However, if your job is physically demanding, then you must rest properly to avoid any complications.
Factors That Can Affect Healing Time
Here are some important factors that can affect the healing time after your traditional hernia repair surgery:
Age and Overall Health
Patients who are older or have underlying health conditions like diabetes or obesity may experience slower healing. These factors can affect the regrowth of tissues and affect your immune system as well.
Size of Hernia
Having a large hernia will require extensive repair, and this can affect your healing time. Also, hernias that are located in complex areas or have recurred can take longer to heal properly.
Techniques Used
The surgical technique used on the patient can also influence the recovery phase. Treatments like mesh repair can provide added strength, but they can lead to soreness in the first few days after the surgery.
Post-Surgical Care
By following the instructions of your doctor, you will be able to recover properly and efficiently. However, if you disregard the care guidelines and don’t take proper rest, then it can lead to more complications and slow down your healing.
Final Thoughts
When you are recovering from traditional hernia repair, you need to rest and have patience. Immediately going back to your routine and ignoring your doctor’s guidelines will only delay your healing, and it can lead to more complications. By understanding the factors that can influence your healing process, you can plan your routine more easily. If you face anything unusual or when the soreness becomes too much, you must immediately consult your healthcare professional.
At Texas Hernia & Surgical Specialists, we have an experienced team on board who will support you every step of the way. So, book an appointment today and achieve a safe and quick recovery.