Hernia Surgery: Genetic Risks and Post-Op Recovery Concerns

Hello doctor, I had hernia surgery a few weeks ago. Is this condition hereditary?

I am currently 18 years old, male, and I just had hernia surgery in February.
I would like to ask about my family history: my grandfather, father, and younger brother all have bilateral hernias.
However, before my surgery, it was confirmed that I only had a right-sided hernia.
Does this mean I have a higher risk of developing a left-sided hernia in the future? I am really worried about having to undergo another surgery.
I hope the doctor can provide me with an answer.
Additionally, I have noticed that the very edge of my surgical incision feels numb and has a strange sensation.
Will this improve on its own over time? Is there any way to alleviate this in the short term? The sensation feels quite unpleasant.

Da Kai, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/02/12

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Indeed, young individuals often experience bilateral hernias, which are due to congenital structural defects that cannot be prevented.
It is advisable to take it lightly, as it is not a serious illness.
The numbness experienced after surgery is normal and is caused by nerve damage during the procedure.
Generally, this will improve within six months; however, if the nerve is severed, it may not recover.

Reply Date: 2015/02/12

More Info

Hernia surgery is a common procedure, especially for individuals with a family history of hernias, as you described. Given your background, it’s understandable to have concerns about the likelihood of developing a hernia on the left side after having surgery for a right-sided hernia.
Genetics can play a significant role in the development of hernias. If multiple family members, including your grandfather, father, and brother, have experienced bilateral hernias, it does suggest a genetic predisposition. While it is not guaranteed that you will develop a left-sided hernia, your risk may indeed be higher than that of someone without a family history. Factors such as connective tissue disorders, which can be hereditary, may also contribute to the likelihood of developing hernias.
Regarding your concern about the sensation of numbness or unusual feelings at the edge of your surgical incision, this is not uncommon after hernia surgery. The surgery involves cutting through layers of tissue, which can lead to nerve irritation or damage. This can result in sensations such as numbness, tingling, or a strange feeling in the area surrounding the incision. In many cases, these sensations improve over time as the nerves heal. However, the duration of recovery can vary from person to person.
In the short term, there are a few strategies you can employ to help manage these sensations. Gentle massage around the incision site, once it has healed sufficiently, can sometimes help to stimulate the nerves and improve sensation. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated can support overall healing. If the sensations are bothersome, discussing pain management options with your healthcare provider may also be beneficial.

It’s important to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge from the incision), or if the sensations worsen or do not improve over time, you should reach out to your surgeon or healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may recommend physical therapy or other interventions to help with nerve recovery.

In conclusion, while your family history does increase your risk for developing a left-sided hernia, it is not a certainty. The unusual sensations you are experiencing post-surgery are likely related to nerve healing and may improve with time. Always keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider regarding your concerns and symptoms, as they can provide personalized advice and support tailored to your specific situation.

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