Patient pathway
Recovery after surgery
Practical guidance on pain control, activity, driving, work, sport and when to seek advice after hernia or diastasis surgery.
Recovery timeline
- Day 0–1: early mobilisation, light diet and pain control
- Week 1: wound check, walking, driving when safe
- Week 2–4: gradual return to light activity and work
- Week 4–8: progressive return to sport and heavier exertion
- Month 2+: abdominal-pelvic rehabilitation when indicated
Pain control
Pain is usually well controlled with paracetamol and anti-inflammatories when appropriate. Nerve blocks and local anaesthesia during surgery can reduce early discomfort.
Avoid straining, constipation and heavy lifting in the early postoperative period, as these increase abdominal pressure and discomfort.
When to contact your surgeon
- Hard, painful or non-reducible swelling
- Fever, increasing redness or discharge from the wound
- Severe abdominal pain or vomiting
- Inability to pass stool or gas
- Shortness of breath or calf pain
