Quick Answer
Laparoscopic hernia surgery recovery takes 5 to 7 days for desk work and 4 to 6 weeks for full activity. Open hernia surgery takes 2 to 3 weeks for desk work and 6 to 8 weeks for full recovery.
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Hernia surgery is one of the most common surgical procedures in India. Recovery time depends primarily on whether you had laparoscopic or open surgery.
Day 1: You will feel groggy from anaesthesia. Mild pain at the incision sites managed with oral painkillers. Rest at home.
Day 2 to 3: Pain reduces significantly. You can move around the house comfortably. Light meals. No driving.
Day 4 to 5: Most patients feel 70 to 80 percent normal. Light desk work from home if needed.
Day 6 to 7: Return to office work is possible for most patients with desk jobs. Avoid lifting anything heavier than 2 to 3 kg.
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Week 2: You can drive. Normal diet resumes. Light walking recommended.
Week 3 to 4: Light exercise like walking and yoga is permitted.
Week 5 to 6: Full activity including gym and heavy lifting is permitted.
Open surgery has a longer recovery due to the larger incision. Return to desk work takes 2 to 3 weeks. Full activity including lifting and exercise is permitted after 6 to 8 weeks.
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For the first 2 days eat light foods like dal, khichdi, curd, soup, and fruit juice. Avoid constipation by drinking plenty of water. After day 3 resume normal diet with some caution and avoid very spicy or oily food for 2 weeks.
Call your doctor immediately if you have fever above 101 degrees, severe pain not controlled by medication, redness or discharge from the wound, or difficulty urinating.
MySurgery provides a dedicated care coordinator who guides you through every step of recovery including medication schedule, diet plan, and follow-up appointments at no extra cost.
Dr. Priya Nair
Laparoscopic Surgeon, MS Surgery, 12 years experience
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