Based on Civil Aviation Authority guidance we recommend at least 48 hours before flying after keyhole surgery or 10 days after an open surgical operation.
Can I fly 3 days after hernia surgery?
Less time is required after laparoscopic procedures because there has usually been less tissue damage. Flying can resume one week after diagnostic laparoscopy if symptoms of the underlying condition permit and 3-4 weeks after more major laparoscopic procedures such as inguinal hernia repair or cholecystectomy.
Can flying aggravate a hernia?
Yes. Any abdominal strain — like lifting luggage out of an airplane overhead bin or car trunk — can cause a hernia to worsen, allowing part of the intestines to become strangulated.
What you Cannot do after hernia surgery?
No strenuous activity. No lifting anything over 15 pounds. No driving (especially while you are taking narcotic pain meds) No hot tubs, swimming, or soaking for 2 weeks.
How long before I can fly after a hernia operation Related Questions
How long does it take for hernia mesh to heal?
After hernia mesh surgery, most patients can go home the same day. Full recovery may take four to six weeks. Elderly patients who undergo laparoscopic surgery may recover sooner. Patients should perform only necessary functions right after surgery, but can resume light activity after a few weeks.
Is it safe to fly with an inguinal hernia?
Your doctor or medical team should be able to tell you whether it’s safe to fly with your hernia. There can be an increased risk of swelling and strangulation if you fly with a protruding hernia, so it’s important to get medical advice. This means we can only cover you if your doctor gives you the all-clear to travel.
What are the restrictions after hernia surgery?
Gentle exercise, such as walking, can help the healing process, but you should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for about 4 to 6 weeks. You may find sex painful or uncomfortable at first, but it’s usually fine to have sex when you feel like it.
Will I always feel the mesh after hernia surgery?
People who have a mesh plug used to repair their hernias often feel the mesh plug. While it’s not always painful, some chronic pain issues are likely due to the shape and location of the mesh plug.
How many miles can I walk after hernia surgery?
There are no medical or physical restrictions on activity after surgery. That means it is OK to walk, climb stairs, lift, have sexual intercourse, mow the lawn, or exercise as long as it doesn’t hurt. In fact, returning to normal activity as soon as possible will most likely enhance your recovery.
Can I drive 4 days after hernia surgery?
Normally, you should refrain from driving for at least 1 week after a hernia repair operation. You should be free from the distracting effect of pain or the sedative or other effects of any pain relief medication you are taking.
How often should I walk around after hernia surgery?
Walking a little bit after your hernia surgery can go a long way so keep it to a few brief 5-10 minute sessions per day for the first week or so after your surgery.
Can high altitude cause hernia?
In our patient’s case, the increase in intra-abdominal pressure experienced in a flight at high altitude was considered the cause of diaphragmatic hernia manifestations.
Can bending over make a hernia worse?
The bulge may appear gradually over a period of several weeks or months or it may form suddenly after lifting heavy weights, coughing, bending, straining, or laughing. Many hernias flatten when patient lies down. Patients also can present with groin discomfort or pain. The discomfort may be worse by bending or lifting.
Can flying make inflammation worse?
Extended periods of sitting on long flights can worsen joint stiffness and pain, while other factors like stress and poor sleep can make you more prone to flare-ups. Long flights can be challenging, but a little planning can help minimize your discomfort.
Is it better to sit or lay down after hernia surgery?
At first you may need to rest in bed with your upper body raised on pillows. This helps you breathe easier and may help lessen post-surgery hernia pain.
How long is bed rest after hernia surgery?
Fullington perform (for inguinal, umbilical, and small incisional hernias) is about 2 weeks. Many patients feel well enough to perform normal daily activities – including driving and return to work – after only a couple of days, but we restrict patient activity for 2 weeks to allow for adequate healing.
Can I push to poop after hernia surgery?
Do not strain and try to force a bowel movement though as you do not want to do any damage to your repaired hernia.
What is the fastest way to recover from hernia surgery?
Rest when you feel tired. Try to walk each day. If your doctor gives you an abdominal binder to wear, use it as directed. Avoid strenuous activities, such as biking, jogging, weight lifting, or aerobic exercise, until your doctor says it is okay. Avoid lifting anything that would make you strain.
Can I bend down after hernia surgery?
Avoid lifting more than 10 pounds for four weeks and excessive bending or twisting for one to two weeks following surgery. This is to allow healing of the incisions, specifically the fascia (the strongest layer of the abdomen wall) and to decrease the risk of your hernia coming back.
Do you lose weight after hernia surgery?
Patients are counseled that they will likely lose 10–15 pounds during the first 4–6 weeks after surgery before the nadir of weight loss (2).