2025 Dec 13

Inguinal Hernia Surgery Recovery: Postoperative Care and Common Questions

Inguinal hernia repair is a common surgical procedure and, in most cases, recovery is smooth and uncomplicated. However, after surgery it is normal to have questions about pain, medication, physical activity, wound care or changes in the groin and genital area.

In this article, we explain in a clear and practical way what to expect after inguinal hernia surgery, which symptoms are normal, which ones require medical assessment, and how to take care of yourself during recovery.

Is pain normal after inguinal hernia surgery?

Yes. Mild to moderate pain or discomfort in the groin area is common during the first days after surgery.
Pain usually improves progressively and is well controlled with the prescribed medication.

Common sensations include:

Tightness or pressure in the groin
Discomfort when moving, coughing or standing up
Increased sensitivity around the surgical site

If pain is severe, worsens over time or does not improve, it should be assessed.

Medication after inguinal hernia surgery

After inguinal hernia repair, medication is usually prescribed to control pain and support recovery.

This may include:

Painkillers
Anti-inflammatory drugs, if appropriate
In some cases, medication to prevent constipation

It is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions and not start or stop medication on your own.
If pain is not adequately controlled or side effects appear, medical advice is recommended.

Swelling of the penis or testicles after inguinal hernia surgery

In men, swelling of the scrotum or penis is relatively common after inguinal hernia repair, especially when the hernia was large.

This may be caused by:

Local inflammation
Small bruises or hematomas
Fluid that descends by gravity

In most cases, swelling improves spontaneously over days or weeks.

What can help?

Relative rest
Slight elevation of the scrotum when lying down
Wearing supportive underwear
Applying cold packs (always wrapped in a cloth)

Medical review is advised if swelling is very painful, increases or is associated with fever.

Is it normal to feel a lump or hardness near the incision?

Yes. After surgery, a firm area or small lump near the incision is common.
This is usually due to inflammation, fluid collection (seroma) or scar tissue.

👉 It does not mean the hernia has come back.
In most cases, it gradually decreases over time.

It should be checked if it:

Increases in size
Becomes very painful
Is associated with redness or fever

Changes in sensation in the groin area

After surgery, some patients may notice:

Tingling
Numbness
Altered skin sensation

This is related to manipulation of small superficial nerves during surgery and usually improves progressively over weeks or months.

Wound care after inguinal hernia surgery

Wound care is simple but important:

Keep the incision clean and dry
Showering is usually allowed after 24–48 hours, according to medical advice
Dry the area gently, without rubbing
Do not apply creams or products unless prescribed

Stitches, staples and scar after inguinal hernia surgery

In inguinal hernia surgery, absorbable stitches or non-absorbable stitches/staples may be used, depending on the technique and the surgeon’s decision.

When stitches or staples are not absorbable, they are usually removed 8–10 days after surgery, following medical instructions.

It is normal for the scar to be:

Slightly red during the first days
Firm during the first weeks

Over time, the scar usually becomes softer and less noticeable.
Medical assessment is recommended if redness, increasing pain or discharge appears.

When can I return to physical activity or exercise?

This is one of the most common concerns after surgery.

In general:

Walking: from the first day
Light daily activities: after a few days
Exercise and significant physical effort: usually after 3–4 weeks, progressively

During the first weeks, it is advisable to avoid:

Heavy lifting
Abdominal exercises
High-impact sports

Recovery may vary depending on whether the surgery was performed using an open or laparoscopic approach, with recovery usually being faster after laparoscopic surgery.

When can I drive again after inguinal hernia surgery?

Driving is usually not recommended during the first few days, especially if pain is present or if you are taking medication that may affect reflexes.

In general, driving can be resumed when:

Pain is well controlled
You can move comfortably
Strong painkillers are no longer needed

For many patients, this is possible after the first week, although timing may vary individually.

Diet after inguinal hernia surgery

No special diet is usually required.
It is recommended to:

Eat light meals during the first days
Drink enough fluids
Avoid constipation

Constipation can increase abdominal pressure and cause discomfort.

When can sexual activity be resumed?

Sexual activity can be resumed when pain allows, without strict contraindications.
During the first weeks, positions that cause discomfort should be avoided.

Warning signs after inguinal hernia surgery

Medical assessment is advised if any of the following appear:

Fever
Severe or increasing pain
Significant redness around the incision
Purulent discharge
Sudden increase in swelling
Difficulty urinating

These signs are uncommon but require evaluation.

Recovery and long-term outcomes

Most patients recover without complications and return to their normal daily activities.
Following postoperative recommendations helps to:

Reduce pain
Prevent complications
Minimise the risk of recurrence

If you think you may have an inguinal hernia or notice a lump in the groin, a specialist assessment can confirm the diagnosis and help define the most appropriate treatment for your case.

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