Before your procedure
Special considerations for hernia patients
- If you have a chronic cough, we'll treat it before surgery — coughing strains a fresh repair
- If you smoke, stop or cut down significantly at least 2 weeks before — smoking delays healing
- If you're often constipated, we'll address it before surgery — straining is your hernia's worst enemy
- Otherwise, follow the same general preparation as for gallbladder surgery: blood tests, medicine review, fasting as advised
After your procedure: recovery timeline
Days 1–7
- Wear the abdominal binder or support belt if one is advised, especially when standing and walking
- Use a stool softener if prescribed — avoid constipation in the first week
- If you need to cough, press a pillow firmly against your abdomen
- Sleep slightly propped up (2–3 pillows) for the first few nights
Weeks 2–6
- Gradually increase activity — walking and gentle stretching are encouraged
- No heavy lifting until about week 6
- Some tightness or pulling is normal while the mesh integrates with your tissue
After 6 weeks
- Cleared for the gym, sport and heavy work — start weights at about half your usual load and build up
- The mesh is now part of your abdominal wall
Common questions
Will I feel the mesh inside me?
Most patients don't once they've healed — tissue grows over it and it becomes part of the abdominal wall. If discomfort hasn't settled after a few weeks, tell us.
Can the hernia come back?
With modern laparoscopic mesh repair the chance is low — and lower still if you avoid heavy lifting early, treat constipation and chronic cough, and stop smoking.
When can I return to the gym?
Light cardio from about week 2. Weight training from week 6, starting at about half your usual load.