Hernia surgery is a common and effective procedure performed in Nepal to repair weak spots in the abdominal wall. While surgery offers permanent relief, recovery is equally important for a successful outcome. If you or a loved one has undergone hernia surgery — or is planning to — understanding what to expect during the recovery phase can help reduce anxiety and promote a smoother healing process.

This blog provides an honest, step-by-step guide about hernia recovery in simple language — tailored for Nepali patients.

Types of Hernia Surgeries Common in Nepal

Understanding your surgery helps you prepare better for recovery. Most commonly performed hernia surgeries include:

• Open Hernia Repair (Mesh repair technique)
• Laparoscopic Hernia Repair (Minimally invasive)

Recovery time depends on the type of surgery, size of hernia, your age, and overall health.

Hospital Stay After Surgery

• Open surgery: Usually requires 1–2 days hospital stay
• Laparoscopic surgery: Mostly day-care or 24-hour stay

Most hospitals in Nepal discharge you once pain is controlled, and you can walk and eat.

Recovery Timeline: What Happens Week by Week

First 1–3 Days After Surgery

• Mild to moderate pain around the incision or mesh area
• Swelling or bruising in the groin/scrotum (especially in men)
• Fatigue and light-headedness after movement
• You’ll be encouraged to walk on the same day or next day

Note: Pain medications, antibiotics, and support from family members will help in these early days.

Week 1 to 2: At Home Recovery

• You can walk around the house, use the toilet, and eat normal food
• Avoid lifting anything heavier than 3–5 kg
• Take prescribed medicines on time
• Keep the surgical area clean and dry
• Stitches may be absorbable or removed after 7–10 days

Tip: Contact your doctor if you notice fever, pus from the wound, or increasing pain.

Week 3 to 4: Back to Light Activities

• Most patients start feeling much better by 3 weeks
• You may return to a desk job or school
• Can resume light house chores and short walks
• Avoid: bending down too much, riding motorbikes on rough roads, heavy lifting

Tip: Start light stretching or breathing exercises only after consulting your surgeon.

Week 5 to 6: Back to Normal Life

• Resume most routine tasks
• Start driving a vehicle if pain-free
• You may do: Non-strenuous jobs, light yoga or office work
• Avoid gym or heavy weight training for at least 3 months

What to Avoid After Hernia Surgery

• Lifting heavy objects (especially gas cylinders, children)
• Straining during toilet – avoid constipation
• Persistent cough or sneezing – get treated early
• Smoking – it delays wound healing
• Skipping medications or follow-up visits

Diet Tips for Faster Recovery

• Eat light and protein-rich food (dal, eggs, chicken, paneer, soyabean)
• Stay hydrated (2–3 liters water/day)
• Avoid overly spicy, oily, or hard-to-digest food for 1 week
• Include fibrous food to prevent constipation (papaya, spinach, fruits)

When Can You Resume Exercise or Physical Work?

• Walking: After 24–48 hours
• Sexual activity: After 2–4 weeks depending on comfort
• Light exercise: After 5–6 weeks
• Manual labor or gym: After 9–10 weeks (only after doctor clearance)

When to consult Your Surgeon Urgently?

• High-grade fever
• Redness or pus from wound
• Severe abdominal pain or vomiting
• Persistent swelling not going down
• Pain worsening instead of improving

Advice from a Hernia Surgeon in Nepal

As a hernia specialist practicing in Kathmandu and Lalitpur, I encourage patients not to rush recovery. Take it slow, listen to your body, and follow your doctor’s guidance. Proper recovery prevents recurrence and ensures long-term success.