How to Prepare for Your Hernia Surgery

Preparing for Hernia Surgery

Hernia surgery can be stressful. Having adequate information on the procedure makes it easier for both the surgical team and yourself.

Meeting with your doctor

Here are some of the things to keep in mind before meeting with your doctor:

• Your medical information – Be as clear as possible in regards to your medical information. Include any NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication) that you might be taking currently. You should also let the team know if you’re suffering from any other diagnosed condition.
• Your symptoms – How long have you been experiencing discomfort? Have the symptoms worsened or changed recently?
• Make sure to write down all your questions to help you from forgetting to ask anything important in the meeting.

What you should expect on the day of surgery

Prior to surgery, you should strictly follow any pre-appointment restrictions laid out by your doctor. For instance, avoid taking any NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and aspirin a week prior to surgery. You also shouldn’t eat on the day of surgery. Showering the morning of or the night before surgery is recommended as it reduces chances of infection. It’s important to feel well rested and get a good night’s sleep the night before.

Going home

After the procedure, your doctor will provide more specific instructions regarding recovery. He or she will cover things such as wound care, diet, follow-up care, as well as getting back to a normal routine.

Just like with any other surgery, you’ll experience some pain in the area of the operation. There could be some bruising and a small level of swelling. It’s normal to feel occasional burning, tugging, pulling as well as other unusual sensations within the groin for several months. When it comes to recovering, everyone is different. The important thing is to carefully be attentive to your body.

Dos and Don’ts of Post-Operation:

• It is important that you are up and moving around the night of your surgery.
• You should not lift more than 15 pounds.
• You should not drive an automobile.
• Refrain from core activity for the first 48 hours.
• Activities after the first 48 hours are determined by the type of hernia surgery and repair performed; be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions.
• You may start with light exercises such as using an elliptical, stationary bicycle, stair climber, Pilates, yoga, or light weights the night of, or the day following surgery.

Why Choose Dr. Reiner?

Dr. Reiner has been recognized on local, national, and international levels in magazines and newspapers including New York Magazine and Castle Connolly as one of the leading surgeons in his field. For more information on preparing for your hernia surgery or if you have pain related to a hernia, contact Dr. Reiner’s office today to book an appointment. Fill out the form on this page to request an appointment or call 212.879.6677 to learn more.