The length of your recovery will depend on the severity of your condition, the type of hernia you have and the method of repair your surgeon chooses, in addition to your general health. Many hernia repairs are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that you will return home the same day of your surgery.
»Download Printable PDF
Ask your doctor for specific postsurgical care instructions. Some of these might include:
  • Engage in light activity the following day (standing, walking) and gradually increase activity level.
  • At first, avoid lifting and sexual activity that might strain your incision.
  • Take prescribed pain medication to relieve discomfort.
  • You may need a urinary catheter (a tube to assist in urination) for a short while after surgery.
  • Call your doctor if you experience high fever, bleeding, vomiting, severe bowel problems (diarrhea or constipation), redness or draining around surgical site, severe pain, or trouble urinating.
  • Schedule a follow-up visit with your surgeon 2-3 weeks after the surgery.
  • Ask your doctor when it will be safe to return to work. It may be 2-6 weeks depending on the type of job you have and the surgical procedure.

After your recovery, it is important to make some lifestyle changes to avoid a recurrence of your hernia or development of a new hernia.
  • Be careful with heavy lifting or strenuous activity and learn proper lifting techniques.
  • Adjust your diet to avoid constipation and straining during bowel movements (for example, eat more fiber).
  • Control coughing and sneezing (for example, quit smoking or treat allergies that cause you to cough or sneeze).
  • Avoid exercises that strain abdominal muscles.
  • Lose weight to relieve stress on abdominal muscles.


Biodesign may not be the appropriate treatment option for your condition.
Information provided on this site is not intended to replace consultation with a medical professional.

NOTE: Any surgery has the potential for complications. The following complications are possible with the use of Biodesign® Advanced Tissue Repair Products: bleeding, infection, abscess, induration, acute or chronic inflammation (initial application of surgical graft materials may be associated with transient, mild, localized inflammation), allergic reaction, visceral adhesions, fistula formation, seroma formation, hematoma, extrusion, recurrence of tissue defect, and delayed or failed incorporation of the device. Not all part numbers listed on this website are approved for sale in all regulatory jurisdictions. Consult with your local Cook representative or customer service center for details.