Post-Surgery Hernia Recovery: Key Questions and Concerns Addressed

Hello doctor, I previously inquired about hernias?

Hello, after you answer me, I still have some questions.
Since I currently only have issues on the right side (18 years old, right side for about 2 years), does this mean that the recurrence rate on the left side is very high? (All males in my family have bilateral issues.) I have been running, swimming, weight training, and doing sit-ups before the surgery.
Given this, would you still recommend that I continue my previous exercise routine after recovery?
Additionally, regarding the cosmetic (non-sutured) concerns, since the incision is located in the groin area, will the edge of the incision be affected by pubic hair, making the non-sutured adhesive less secure? If so, would you recommend trimming body hair? (I haven't trimmed it yet because I'm worried about bacteria from the scissors contaminating the wound and causing inflammation.
Also, as soon as it starts to grow back, it feels prickly like a cactus.)
Furthermore, since the non-sutured adhesive is long (applied perpendicular to the incision), the groin area may cause the adhesive to not lie flat due to sitting, which could result in some areas losing adhesion.
If the areas that lose adhesion are at the incision site, is it correct for me to reinforce it with breathable tape to ensure the wound is sealed with the non-sutured adhesive? Will the non-sutured adhesive still be effective in this case? (This is on the third day after application...)
Also, due to the non-sutured adhesive, I feel tightness at the incision site when I keep my legs straight while sleeping or standing upright while walking.
Should patients still be encouraged to stand straight in this situation? Lastly, when showering, should soap be avoided on the adhesive area, or can it be applied directly on top?

Da Kai, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/02/13

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Although young individuals with inguinal hernias often present with bilateral cases, it is not always the case.
The likelihood of recurrence on the left side is higher compared to the general population.
Maintaining a regular exercise routine is beneficial; however, weight training may increase the risk of hernia recurrence.
It is not feasible to suggest that you avoid exertion for life, so continue with your usual exercise habits.
If a left-sided recurrence occurs, seek surgical intervention promptly for a definitive solution.
If it does not recur, that is even better.

Indeed, adhesive strips for scar management may not adhere well in areas with hair growth.
On the other hand, the presence of hair can help conceal the scar, raising the question of whether it is necessary to use adhesive strips at all.
If you are still concerned about the appearance, consider applying scar treatment ointments.
Keep in mind that adhesive strips lose their stickiness when wet, so it is essential to keep the area dry.
Standing upright is acceptable, and a feeling of tightness is normal; some patients experience this sensation after hernia surgery, which may not solely be related to the use of adhesive strips.

Reply Date: 2015/02/13

More Info

Post-surgery recovery, especially after a hernia repair, can bring about a myriad of questions and concerns. It’s essential to address these comprehensively to ensure a smooth recovery process.
Firstly, regarding the concern about the likelihood of developing a hernia on the left side, it is indeed true that individuals with a history of hernias on one side may have an increased risk of developing them on the opposite side, particularly if there is a family history of bilateral hernias. This is due to inherent weaknesses in the abdominal wall that may predispose individuals to hernias. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can help mitigate this risk.
When it comes to resuming physical activities post-surgery, it is generally advisable to gradually return to your previous exercise routine, including running, swimming, and weight training, once you have received clearance from your surgeon. Typically, this clearance is given around 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery, but it can vary based on individual recovery rates. It’s crucial to listen to your body and avoid any activities that cause pain or discomfort, as these could indicate that the surgical site is not yet fully healed.

Regarding your concerns about the surgical site and the use of adhesive strips (often referred to as "steri-strips" or "dermabond"), it’s important to keep the area clean and dry. If you are worried about body hair affecting the adhesion of the strips, trimming the hair around the surgical site can be beneficial. However, it’s essential to use clean scissors and ensure that the area is disinfected to prevent any risk of infection.
If you notice that the adhesive strips are losing their grip, reinforcing them with breathable tape is a reasonable approach. However, it’s best to consult your surgeon about this, as they can provide specific guidance based on your individual situation. The adhesive strips are designed to hold the edges of the wound together, and if they are not adhering properly, it could impact the healing process.
As for the tightness you feel when standing or walking, this is not uncommon after surgery. It’s important to maintain good posture, but if the tightness becomes uncomfortable, you should adjust your position or take breaks as needed.
When showering, it is generally recommended to avoid getting the adhesive strips wet for the first few days. If you need to wash the area, you can gently clean around the strips without directly applying soap to them. After a few days, most surgeons allow gentle washing of the area, but again, it’s best to follow your surgeon’s specific instructions.

In summary, post-surgery recovery requires careful attention to your body’s signals and adherence to your surgeon's guidelines. Gradually returning to exercise, managing the surgical site properly, and maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider will help ensure a successful recovery. If you have any persistent concerns or unusual symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to your surgeon for further evaluation.

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