If you are scheduled for hernia repair with Dr. Adam Harris, you are likely wondering, how soon can I get back to my routine?
Whether you are having an inguinal, umbilical, or hiatal hernia repair, Dr. Harris utilizes minimally invasive techniques whenever possible. This approach minimizes pain and gets you back to your routine faster.
Phase 1: First 24–48 Hours (Rest & Recovery)
Most hernia repairs are performed as same-day outpatient procedures at our Birmingham surgical centers.
Going Home: You will need a family member or friend to drive you home from the facility.
Activity: Focus on rest but at a minimum you should get up and walk around your house every few hours to promote circulation and reduce your risk of blood clots associated with any surgery. Avoid any lifting or strenuous activity. If you feel up to getting out of the house for brief periods or cooking for yourself that is fine but don’t over do it.
Pain Management: You may feel some soreness at the incision sites or hernia site. You can
apply an ice pack to reduce the swelling and discomfort. Please do not try to “tough it out” by not taking prescription pain medication – try not to get behind on pain management. Everyone
is different on how they experience pain. Some patients believe they should feel no pain and if the medications don’t completely eliminate all their pain they believe something is wrong or they need a different medication. Remember that medications should “take the edge off” but do not eliminate pain.
Bathing: Patients will be able to shower 24 hours after surgery if skin glue is used as the dressing (which is most common). If skin glue is not used, wait 48 hours.
Phase 2: Days 3–7 (Light Activity)
By day three, most patients find they can stop taking prescription pain medications and transition to over-the-counter options.
Walking: This is the best exercise at this point in your recovery.
Work: If you have a desk job or work from home, many patients return to work within 3–7 days.
Driving: You can drive once 24 hours have passed since surgery, you are no longer taking prescription pain medication, and you can comfortably where a seat belt and do all the necessary movements of driving including rapidly applying the brakes.
Phase 3: Weeks 2–4 (Increasing Intensity & Returning to Routine)
By weeks 2-4 is when things start to return to normal.
Exercise: You can increase your walking distance. If your hernia was small and your pain is minimal, you can try light jogging as long as that doesn’t cause much discomfort.
Lifting: You should still avoid heavy lifting. You want to avoid engaging your core any more than you would to get out of bed. This weight amount is different for everyone.
Phase 4: Week 4 and Beyond (Full Recovery)
After your follow-up appointment at our Hwy 280 office, Dr. Harris will typically clear you for full activity.
Back to the Gym: You can return to lifting weights, running, or more strenuous hiking.
Long-Term: By following the recovery protocol, the risk of hernia recurrence is significantly reduced.
Ready to get your hernia repaired by a trusted surgeon here in Birmingham?
Call the office of Dr. Adam Harris at (205) 995-9700 for an appointment today.