Chronic Pain After Hernia Surgery

Dr. Harris discusses what patients need to know about developing chronic pain after hernia surgery as well as what can be done to minimize that risk.

[@rossroble2605]

I've had chronic pain from a bilateral laproscopic inguinal hernia surgery for over 7 years. With all due respect, there are a much larger number than 3% of people with chronic pain directly from hernia surgeries, specifically with mesh. Every doctor I've been to, including yourself, has dismissed my pain because the hernia itself has not reoccurred; neglecting the fact that the pain is more debilitating after the surgery. The only recourse that has been suggested is pain pills, opiates and the like. Outcomes such as mine should be discussed transparently when consulting with patients, and downplaying of this issue is a big part of why people like me continue to live with debilitating pain. You mentioned the mesh used it thinner now; however, teflon mesh is a known to leech into the body and cause massive inflamation. Patients should not have to refer to specialist after specialist when you are claiming to be the specialist on hernias. This is a common issue amongst men with hernia mesh, I hope doctors like you start to take our pain seriously instead of pushing the status quo on the current treatment of hernias. I felt rushed to get the surgery and did not weigh my options, due to your urgent suggestion to operate. Anyone who is considering mesh for their hernia surgery, I would recommend looking into other methods. I would rather have another operation to treat a recurring hernia than deal with the effects of mesh.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Ross, Thank you for sharing your story. We're sorry to hear that you have had ongoing disabling pains, CAHS

[@MannyQuacioua]

I had Bilateral Inguinal Hernia surgery on 10/21/2022 the right side hurt worse then the smaller hernia on the left side and my right ball was on fire. Now my left side hurts more and my left ball hurts. Then later it will switch to the other side.

[@user-vl8dx3jz3z]

Can you describe your pain? Is it like realy pain or it feels like something is pulling on the inside? And localization, is it on the very same spot where you had your hernia?

[@marythrower7055]

I wish my doctor would give me something for pain. It’s been 8 weeks for me and I can’t stand it the pain is unbearable at times especially when I ride for a trip back home, out of state. They only gave me pain meds the first two weeks then said take Motrin which I am but I’m taking way more of that than I should. It’s sad the pain meds work better and I only had to take that 2 times a day the over the counter is around the clock. I wish I would have never had this done!

[@rossroble2605]

​@@user-vl8dx3jz3zthe pain is a bit of both. It feels like there is something pulling on the mesh downwards and i have random sharp pains in my right testicle, potentially from a trapped nerve. Teflon has pfas and leeches into the body, causing further inflammation. Dr. Chong Xie, who specializes in fascia, is who I would go to first if I could redo my course of action. Regardless of what any "specialist" says, surgery should not be the primary method.

[@AS--999]

As one of the "3%" who have long term pain I find it offensive how many surgeons just focus on the 97%. It's been almost 2 years for me and I can still feel my hernia site and have daily pain that limits my activity and my life. Only answers I ever get from doctors are "well, unfortunately it looks like you're one of a small minority left with chronic pain" ...that's it, case closed for them. No fixes, just ushered out the door and forgotten, like all the many other "3%". Wish I'd never had the surgery!

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Adrian, Thank you for sharing. We're sorry to hear that you've had this experience after your surgery.

[@mirapilates]

I know what you are going through. The doctor said I had my hernia for years and actually warned me that it might not heal well. It was a hernia in my groin. It's been 8 months and I'm in pain. I also wished I never had the surgery. I don't know what options I have.

[@ashleygreen1557]

I had a inguinal hernia 4 months ago and still got groin pain and right side hip pain tryed.fose having inguinal hernia repair cause eppiditmis.

[@dannyross3081]

@@mirapilates how are you doing now? 8 months i had mesh for my surgery too. feel so much pain i wish i didn’t get the mesh

[@ursinus00]

Me too

[@sam3kperv]

Did a hurnia surgery 4 days ago , I'm in some serious pain rite now, and guys try not to sneeze, you'll be in a world of hurt!!

[@pommiebears]

WILL -I-AMZ how are you now?

[@sam3kperv]

Pommie bears I'm not bad, but I'm still feeling some pain in my side

[@pommiebears]

WILL -I-AMZ I had bilateral hernia surgery for both femeral and inguinal hernias two years ago.......I had the mesh. I’m going to doctors today due to nerve damage. They cut a nerve out that they’d accidentally stitched into the scar but it’s still hurting. I used to lift weights and seems I lifted too much lol! I hope you continue to heal. Don’t lift anything yet....I can come back. Mine did and I only did housework. Take good care 🌷

[@sam3kperv]

Pommie bears thanks a lot for the advice, I'll try not to lift anything too heavy, but I'm the only man in my house so my man bower is needed

[@pommiebears]

WILL -I-AMZ well, please be careful. It can pop out again. You take care 👍🏻

[@thecrazymanfromireland]

Fantastic video thanks for sharing 👍👍

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Crazy, We're glad it helped. All the best, CAHS

[@carygreen2831]

Thanks for sharing you are an awesome doctor and very knowledgeable thank you sir I had hernia surgery and I'm doing great 👍👍👍

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Thank you for your comments!

[@rubawael4500]

I am still in pain it's been 3 months I'm 21 and it makes me feel like an elder lady I was so active and healthy before the surgery 😭

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Ruba Wael, We're sorry to hear that you are still having pain 3 months after surgery. Hopefully you begin to feel more back to normal in the coming weeks. Good luck, CAHS

[@rubawael4500]

@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists thank you so much, so is it normal to still be in pain months post surgery?

[@hamas2124]

@@rubawael4500 i still pain alsi sister. Its horrrable i cant do anything free. may i knoe how do you feel now?

[@madlad4687]

Dude i went to the Gym everyday before the surgery. 4 months Post surgery and im having pain in my testicle everyday, every moment. Cant do anything.

[@GreggK6EGG]

@@madlad4687 same here.... its killing me

[@jordanputz8331]

I want to thankyou for the encouragement. What do you feel the next course of action would or should be? Asking because I have pretty much run out of options. Please..

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Jordan, We hope after a year you've had some improvement in your situation. Best, CAHS

[@kandilash2384]

Like so many others I’m 3 weeks out from Laparoscopic. still in lots of pain effecting daily life. My back even hurts now and difficulty with digestion and restroom. My surgeon has not done much follow up with my concerns . I’m frustrated and hoping I can at least find pain management or if they can tell whether or not this failed. Otherwise I’ll be making my appointment !

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Kandilash, Having issues with digestion and the restroom are not very common at hernia surgery or any surgery. Sometimes patients can become constipated from pain medications but that usually resolves within days to weeks. We hope that you begin to improve soon, CAHS

[@camilaarvani]

Thank you Dr. for this amazing video. I had hernia inguinal surgery 7 years ago and I still have pain in my nerves. Do you have some advices? Cheers

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Camila, We would be happy to see you. Feel free to call our office anytime to set up an office visit: [phone]

[@zenyorit6285]

me tooo pain until now in my groin

[@larrymiddleton5647]

@@zenyorit6285 what kind of surgery did you have?

[@mr.q8ty965]

Please stop the background music which is really annoying. Thank you for your valuable videos. They are excellent. I had a left inguinal hernia without a mesh. And now it came back. Today is my second day in hospital after a mesh open operation. Let's see how things will go.

[@noelmurphy406]

How did that 2nd op go for u?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

We hope that you're doing well since your comments 2 years ago. All the best, CAHS

[@jiujitsu94]

Why would they use mesh with an open operation? Why didn't you get laparoscopic?

[@mr.q8ty965]

@@jiujitsu94 well maybe because I had an open surgery the first time. The doctor told me that the anatomy of the place where I had the first operation had changed. I just followed the doctor's recommendations. The outcome of the second operation is much better. I started jogging the running without problems. I can run for 8 km which is now my best running distance.

[@jiujitsu94]

@@mr.q8ty965 Open surgeries are brutal. The recovery time is super long

[@juanperaza5471]

Hello Doctor. Thank you for sharing this video. I underwent laparoscopic umbilical hernia repair surgery 5 weeks ago. I was making good progress and getting close to resuming normal activities. However, a few days ago, I started experiencing discomfort in the lower side of my abdomen. It feels like a burning sensation and pulling, rather than sharp pain. The discomfort is intermittent, but I've noticed it is more pronounced when I am seated with my body inclined forward or when I am in the "fetal position." Any feedback you could provide would be greatly appreciated.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

It would be difficult to give an accurate answer via KZbin, but having pulling/tugging/burning around the site of any surgery including hernia surgery is 100% normal. Those symptoms should improve week-week and month-month but can last for up to a year.

[@patrickmccann3051]

hi great video i had hernia surgery 7 months ago and on 1 side i still have pain and burning not 24/7 but every day the doc is talking about nerve block is this safe thank you . patrick

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Thank you for sharing your situation. Good luck with your upcoming nerve block. Best, CAHS

[@salehshajrah3078]

Dr Harris, Do you recommend any specific types of hernia belts or undergarments to be worn post op?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Saleh, We do not recommend or suggest that patients wear a hernia belt after surgery since medical studies have not show it to help prevent recurrences. Best, CAHS

[@dthetrader6021]

I had laparoscopic bilateral inguinal hernia repair with mesh 5 weeks ago. A couple of months prior to surgery I gradually developed left side anteriolateral hip pain with hip flexion (and this was the smaller of the hernias). This does not seem to be improving (or improving almost imperceptibly). X-ray shows modest OA, and indomethacin (50 mg) usually relieves about 80%+ of this. Was/am an active weight lifter, though nothing more than 10 lbs the first 4 weeks, now very gradually resuming activities. Is this hip pain common, and if so, what has been your experience with time course of resolution? Thank you!

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

D, We do not typically see patients with hip pain, and hip pains are not a usual sequel of hernia surgery. An orthopedic doctor might be of more help with hip pains. Best, CAHS

[@Jay-el9iz]

To those who’ve had chronic pain, when did it start after the surgery? have you also developed other "weird" issues or pain, especially affecting your digestive system? Had the surgery in 2017, was okay at first, then all of a sudden or almost, all hell broke loose and I lost my most intimate and trusted home: my body. I’m 23 and feel like I’m already at the end of my life. Would appreciate any insight. Sending strength to those who’re experiencing this or any chronic pain, especially resulting from something that was supposed to help you get better.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Jerry, Thank you for sharing your story. It sounds like you have taken a lot of steps to get help, but sometimes the larger University hospitals like Cleveland Clinic, UCLA and others are very good at helping patients like yourself. We wish you the best, CAHS

[@waliddib5291]

@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists hello Jay, how are doing now? are you still in pain?

[@dtraveler3080]

Look into acid reducers. I’m not a dr. This is not advice.

[@Jay-el9iz]

@@waliddib5291 Hey sorry I didn't see the notification, you didn't mention me. Thank you for reaching out to me, I appreciate it. I'm still in pain but it's a different pain, and my mindset and environment are also different. I'm at another stage in my life. The pain is more dull than ever but the feeling of having a foreign octopus-like object slowly spreading its tentacles throughout my body from the epicenter of the chronic pain (lower abdomen and groin area) is still there. Some mornings are harder than others. Some moments are full of relief and peace. But the baseline is still a feeling of discomfort and dysfunction that I'm slowly accepting while trying to keep the flame of hope alive. I've had different complications over the years all related to the gastrointestinal tract, and the groin, genital and anal areas. I cope with the pain, the bodily issues, and the resulting depressive state as best as I can. I'm also healing from childhood trauma... (I speculate that the inguinal hernia was a direct result of the chronic abuse and its destruction of my physiological homeostasis, a lot of the chaos in my life seems to stem from that). I've used weed a lot, and it has helped, but I've also abused it, which holds its fair share of negative psychological and physical consequences. I want to dig deeper into my creative, fulfilling, and sustainable endeavors next to shape my environment and my resilience as positively as I can considering the chaos my body easily finds itself in.

[@Jay-el9iz]

@@dtraveler3080 I'll look into it with a critical eye.

[@mrjeffvlogs2019]

Goodday doc. So it's mean a chronic pain is normal for the person had hernia surgery in the 3/6 months? I'd like to ask if the mesh cover in the hernia surgery is insoluble how many year before disssolve it. Thank you..

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

JTV channel, Most patients do not have pain for 3-6 months after their surgery although some soreness and occasional pains are not uncommon. Most mesh materials are not soluble and do not dissolve or absorb over time. Best, CAHS

[@douglassmith8950]

Hello Dr. I wonder if you could discuss (in a future video) more about nerves that become irrated due to surgery and the progress or stages at which nerves heal after surgery. i am 12 days out from an open inguinal hernia repair with mesh. My pre op hernia pain is gone however i am experiencing numbness and "hypersensitivity" pain of the surounding skin incision. My surgeon/surgical nurse say this is normal and will subside with continued recovery time.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Douglas, I haven't had a video request yet, but I like your suggestion. Stay tuned and I'll put something together. I agree with the information you've been given, most burning and numbness resolves with time.

[@poker_18rs92]

I am 12 days out today & am experiencing the same symptoms, numbness on my left inner thighs and sharp pains around my left groin, which is where the laproscopic lnguinal hernia repair was. How did you feel after 20-22 days?

[@desiree_w]

It has been 4.5 years (Feb 2017) and I still feel this numbness and hypersensitivity in my abdominal area.

[@caankitbandhu325]

Thanks for info doctor. Had my right iniguinal hernia surgery 2 weeks back. I m feeling a burning sensation there which travels all over my right leg. What could be the cause i m bit nurveous.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

CA Ankit, Having burning, tingling, and other vague sensations is very common after any surgery including hernia surgery. These types of symptoms almost always resolve with time, usually within a few weeks. Best, CAHS

[@mazenbadawix6771]

You speak about high volume of H.repair procedures ayear What if u expect nerve trap either by a stitch of fibrosis resulting in the area? What about the dual mesh like Vypro? What about HTS ? What about the always un satisfied pt?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Mazen Badawix, You are correct in that there a number of different products for hernia meshes. In our experience the mesh that we use provides the best outcomes for our patients. Thank you, CAHS

[@markwitt5544]

I had a triple hernia surgery in 2008, 2 with mesh. My left inguinal has always been a little off but nothing unmanageable. However, in the last 3 years I started running a lot and getting into ultra distances on trail (35 - 50+ mile runs with a lot of vertical). The last couple months the pain has gotten much worst, barely tolerable so I got a ultrasound and was told it's a "probable reoccurring tiny fat hernia" then was referred to a surgeon. I asked my cousin who is a surgeon and she said as long as the pain is tolerable surgery is not required. So, a bit concerned with the pain and the vague diagnosis I was given, I also want to continue training for a 100 mile race coming up. Just curious if anyone could relate or has any advice. Thanks!

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Mark, You're right, u/s and other x-rays are never 100% accurate when diagnosing issues inside of the body. If the pain is tolerable, then watchful waiting would certainly be a reasonable option. Once the pain limits your activities, then a decision has to be made whether to trust the u/s and operate, or to go in a different direction. Good luck and keep us posted, CAHS

[@EtinosaOsayi]

I had an hernia repair surgery last week Thursday. It lasted over four hours. Currently in recovery. It was an open surgery and a mesh was used.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Etinosa, Thank you for sharing your story. All the best in your recovery, CAHS

[@EtinosaOsayi]

@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists Thank you

[@zubi368]

Hello Dr. My dad had open inguinal hernia repair with mesh almost a year now, but he still feels some of the pain with some pulsating pain going towards inner thigh. You mentioned the pains in the video, but you didn't mention how it will go away? my father is not agreeing to see any doctor now, as he considered it life long pain! please help regarding this issue, and what options are there, mesh replace, laproscopy or anything else?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Zubair, pain a year after surgery would constitute chronic pain. In these cases, having a nerve block performed by a pain specialist can often help reduce pain symptoms, and often can eventually eliminate them. Obviously without seeing a physician, this would be difficult to treat. We wish you and your father the best.

[@a4meddon]

California Hernia Specialists: Specialty Care for Hernia Repair hy doc i have a problem right now i have right inguinal hernia sergery just like that name its mean under the belly cuts so after two week i want to shower u know but i really scare how to care atiches and wound and please tell me can i shower and how do i take care of wounds to not u know gwt messy please

[@garrett4121]

Sucks to be the 1-3% in chronic pain. I am 5 mos out abdominal hernia repair with permanent sutures and I feel a constant burning and tugging. Like I have a heavy ball in my lower abdomen almost. I'm in physical therapy but don't know what else to do. I've had far more complicated surgeries than this and recovered much easier in the past. Any suggestions for those with chronic pain and post op with permanent sutures used? My surgeon (I went to someone close to my home) has not been a lot of help. 😩😏🤦🏻‍♀️ I would appreciate your feedback. This has been life altering.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Garrett, You're right, it can be very difficult to treat patients who have chronic pain after surgery. Permanent sutures, mesh, etc are not always the cause of the pains. Sometimes, there can be chronic pain just from having surgery. Treating chronic pain is best accomplished at a larger University hospital type setting where surgeons, pain doctors, radiologists and other specialists can work together to come up with the correct diagnosis and subsequent treatment. We hope you can get some relief soon, CAHS

[@JMacTheFanatic]

I would not believe it's extremely low. I had mesh surgery - not from this dr but a top dr in the field - and I still have pain years later. that being said, it's better than having the hernia. my pain is like cramps or spasms that occur very infrequently but when they do occur it's very painful for a couple minutes at a time. they usually come in episodes of a few times in a row so in total maybe 5 minutes.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

JMac, Thank you for sharing your experience. Best, CAHS

[@demetrios3232]

Firstly, it's very good of Dr. Harris to respond to so many of the comments below. I think it shows true dedication. Nevertheless, after reading these nightmare stories of pain and complications post surgery, my apprehensions and logical suspicions about entering and placing a foreign object in that part of the body have been confirmed. My inguinal hernia of 5 years is medium sized and causes me very little pain. I do hear gastric juices flowing through that area and it's a bit squishy when I speak loudly or strain. However, after reading the comments, I feel like it might be best to leave the hernia alone and perhaps use a hernia belt going forward? I know there is the risk of strangulation. But to have nerves messed with and a mesh implanted in that delicate reproductive area (vas deferens, testicles, muscles and nerves connected to sexual functioning), feels frightening to me now. Isn't there a way to just lightly stitch the hole Or use dissolving pig mesh to let my own tissues close up the hole? I know recurrence is a concern, but having the hole closed just a bit and working on strengthening that area, being more careful going forward seems like a better option? Would any of the commentators below experiencing terrible post surgery pain, have opted against surgery if they had known what they know now?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Some surgeons offer non-mesh repair with the understanding that recurrence rates are higher than with a mesh repair.

[@chrisc1106]

Hi Doc. Had my surgery some 6 days ago..bi-lateral inguinal surgery done throgh laparoscopy...pain was to be expected yet 5 days in ..wham! Every time I get up from sitting down or bend over lightly it's like a needle has been stabbed into me. I have to freeze and try to call down and rub it gently...its intense and painful. After I start moving slowly it dissipates. I'm consious every time now it's going to stab me..the thing is its only on one side I add ..not good at all and I'm stressing this is either a problem with the nerve, tack or mesh. I'm Ringing the surgeon on Monday to see what this is all about...can't be normal. Does this sound normal to you?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Chris C., We hope that you're back to your normal self after these last 8 months. All the best, CAHS

[@ofirabatamram5491]

Dear Doctor. Any comments on post umbilical no mesh open surgery associated with pain in the intestine? During bowl movement? Causing constipation mostly by consumption of carbs? Fear of post eating- digestion pain?My husband had surgery 5 weeks ago. I'm not sure that it is just chronic pain. Please comment. Thank you in advance.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Ofira, I'm not sure if I understand all of your questions, but we usually don't see chronic pain in patients who had umbilical hernia repairs. Although rare, we do see some patients with pain in the groin after an inguinal hernia repair. Eating and digestion pain seems unusual and likely not related to the hernia repair.

[@simeonoyemala5930]

Hello Dr, My experience is a bit unique where I didn’t have a mesh placed as my surgeon said the rip wasn’t big enough for a mesh so they repaired it another way. I was t feeling much 2-3 months after hernia surgery but now I feel pain around the incision area and a hard swell or bump around the incision or cut. What is your recommendation for this? Spoke to my surgeon and he told me to go for ultrasound

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Simeon, It would be hard to guess as to what you're describing. However, having some firmness and hardness around the incision for months after the surgery is 100% normal and expected. Best, CAHS

[@dominicansah-assefuah7030]

Please doctor, after the indirect inguinal hernia repair with mesh, what can possibly cause the hernia to recur?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Dominic, we discuss recurrent hernias in more detail on our website: californiaherniaspecialists.com/hernia-types-recurrent/

[@gingjangproductions5967]

Hello doc, Does a reccurence of a hernia always manifest a bulge? Or is it also possible for a hernia to recur and only experience a pressure from the incision site or the area of the past hernia without bulging? Thankyou in advance. GodBless

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

GingJang, Some hernias and recurrent hernias can be very small and not present as a bulge. But most of the time they would be evident on an ultrasound even in those cases. Best, CAHS

[@EtinosaOsayi]

When a mesh is used, how long does it last? Would it require a replacement after a number of years?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

There is a 1-2% chance a hernia can recur after it's repaired. In the other 98-99% of patients the mesh will last forever.

[@williamtaylor2412]

thank you

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

You're welcome

[@hvacworx7414]

I had lap hernai surgury 5 weeks ago still in pain with a 25 lb weight limit. Doctor canceled my follow up appointment. Been getting chills and hot sweats this past week.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Having some pains at 5 weeks post surgery is still normal and will improve with time.

[@ella-quent7923]

I had ventral hernia surgery 4 months ago. Recently I feel an abrasive or scratchy sensation on one side of my incision (inside) and noticed a small redness in the area. Is it common to get this kind of irritation from time to time? Should I expect this to occur more often? The surgeon placed the mesh in between tissue so the surrounding tissue would further keep the mesh in place.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Ella-quent, We haven't specifically heard of patients having those symptoms after surgery. If those are your only symptoms and it is infrequent, it wouldn't seem like something to be concerned about. But if you have concerns, seeing your surgeon during a 'flare-up' would be appropriate. Best, CAHS

[@arnoldfarias7860]

I have worse pain 12-16 months after the open inguinal repair. Could it be that my chronic pain is from a double mesh placement, as opposed to something light weight like you suggest?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Arnold, Chronic pain after hernia repairs is infrequent but obviously can happen. The cause is difficult to determine but more important is the treatment. Often nerve injections or other modalities can be used to diagnose the cause which can be done by many pain specialists or specialty centers. Best, CAHS

[@junaryb]

Doc what advices can you giventonme. 2 months ago a ultrasound of mine says that I have right inguinal hernia and fluid collection in right scrotal sac. But the 2 doctors who examine my body no lump found even coughing hard. Doctors said that my balls size is normal. This 2 months ago sometimes pain occurs but go away a few hour. Do I need surgery? I'm afraid of chronic pain because a have anxiety panic attack too. Is there any surgery without mesh? I'll be waiting for your reply doc. God blessed you.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Junary, Sometimes u/s images are not 100% accurate. There are no-mesh surgeries which some surgeons can perform. Best, CAHS

[@MultiMajorfail]

I’m now 22 years old been to several doctors over the years for this with 0 solutions (not blaming them, it’s my stupid body). I had a right inguinal hernia mesh repair surgery around 2008, no problems at all until around 2017. I get recurrent pain in both testicles and usually pain a little higher where they did the surgery. Anytime I feel this pain and bend over or squat I feel an unstable feeling where the repair occurred like I’m going to get another hernia. This pain lasts for days, or many weeks at a time, then goes away, and comes right back. I do not exercise anymore because of the unstable feeling like my intestines are about to push right through where they placed the mesh. I loved to exercise lift weights and run, I can ignore the pain and unstable feeling if I knew it wouldn’t cause another hernia. I really don’t know what to do anymore, what’s the point

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Bacillus, Thank you for sharing your situation. Ongoing pains can clearly be very frustrating. Seeing a specialist at a large University type hospital setting, and one that specializes in hernias, could be a great resource. The UCLA hernia center, Cleveland Clinic and others focus on these pains. All the best, CAHS

[@ambhikakungebeharry-sirju5698]

I have to repair an umbilical hernia and was told a prolene mesh would be used . Have you come across patients who experience chronic pains with this mesh?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Ambhika, Having chronic pain after an umbilical hernia repair is extremely rare. There are very few nerves and very little mobility of the muscles in that area. The groin area (inguinal hernias) have more nerves and muscle movement and tend to have more incidence of chronic pains. Best, CAHS

[@mugsib]

I had my umbilical hernia repaired by laparoscopic and open (at my navel) incisions with a mesh 4 weeks ago. I have been having some unusual pain that feels like tugging or pulling on the lower right side of my abdomen (which had no incisions) whenever I sit up, take deep breaths, lie down on my right side or make certain other types of movement.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

mugsib, It's difficult to say what might be causing those sensations of tugging or pulling. Sometimes there is scar tissue around the incision which can lead to those symptoms, but it's unclear what would be causing them in other areas of your abdomen. Sorry we couldn't help, CAHS

[@rahilapm2540]

Hi, how do you feel now? I had the same surgery four weeks ago and same problem as you experienced.

[@javi_4eva]

Had hernia inaugural hernia surgery in feburary I still feel some pain and tenderness as well as sharp pain at times on my right testicle I’m not sure if I go back to the same doctor to check me out or to another?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

After 10 months most patients won't feel sharp pains with activity. Seeing the initial surgeon is always a reasonable first step.

[@josephramone5805]

I had double inguinal hernia surgery ten years ago. The doctor admitted to having "possibly done some nerve damage" on the right hernia site. Due to the agonizing pain I was feeling I was immobile for a week and ultimately developed pulmonary embolism; which put me in the hospital for nine days. Fast-forward ten years and I've begun to feel pain in my left hernia site. It comes and goes, but when it's present it stops me on my tracks. I cannot walk or do much else. The pain varies between a deep, SHARP pain that feels as if I can feel the edges of the mesh, and a dull pain that is easily pinpointed, right below the hernia surgery scar. For what it's worth, the pain began the day after I did a couple of abdominal exercises. Exercises I've done many times over the past ten years without any issues. I wonder if the exercises did anything to the mesh.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Joseph, Thank you for sharing your situation. Your surgeon is correct in that there can be times when there is ongoing nerve pain after any surgery, including hernia surgery. There are treatments such as nerve injections or nerve removal for that type of situation and we hope that you're able to improve. All the best, CAHS

[@alimctavish998]

​@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists is it okay to keep the chronic pain?.... I have a chronic pain after 6 years of surgery but i dont know if it is dangerous or not...

[@jsbj46]

Had robotic inguinal repair done yesterday. Today I am in awful pain and swelling; hurts to stand up, cough, or to touch my abdomen. Make sure you really need it done, but then be prepared. Not a breeze.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Thank you for your comments. Usually the first 24 - 48 hours are the worst. Good luck in your recovery.

[@dannyboydston6278]

Had both Gallbladder and Umbilical surgery on 12/12. Done via Da Vinci robotic single incision surgery. The hernia was without mesh (per my request) and only needed one suture to close. Today, 12/16 I have yet to experience any issues with the Gallbladder removal (no complaints) but I feel periodic nausea and still seem to be extremely bloated. I will not say I'm in pain, but around my belly button and stomach in general I still have "discomfort". Again, it's only been four days since surgery and I'm wondering if feeling bloated and nauseated are common. I removed my bandages today and all looks well. As of yesterday (three day post op) I have discontinued all medications. I may take 400 mg ibuprofen as needed. I'n my opinion, my issues are primarily hernia repair related and just wanted to know are my post op symptoms normal and how long will the bloating and nausea last. Thanks for your video's Doctor. By the way, I'm in Texas and had my procedure done by a fantastic General Surgeon. I do have my first followup 12/20 which will be eight days post surgery.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Danny Boydston, It sounds like you are on the road to a full recovery. All the best, CAHS

[@ATorresFamily]

Is it normal to feel somewhat of chest tightness when breathing after surgery? I was thinking maybe because of the anesthesia, is there any exercise that needs to be done. My dr didn't say anything but I see that some people use a breathing tube exercise to help prevent water in the lungs?? I still have mine from when I had a C-section with my child, do u think I should use it or I should be fine . I just had an umbilical hernia repair. Thanks.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Anais, the breathing tube exercise is usually reserved for patients who are going to be bed ridden for several days and won't be expanding their lungs completely on their own. We don't suggest the use of this after our hernia surgeries because most of our patients are walking and even driving within 1-2 days.

[@tejanochris]

I had the same thing. Took about three years to calm down.

[@annie.bo.briggs]

8 wks post op fron laparoscopic robotic bilateral inguinal hernias plus right side femoral hernia repair. Would physical therapy help? Thank you.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

We don't provide any PT options for our patients after surgery since most are able to resume their activities within a few weeks.

[@aprintariana3129]

I had an inguinal hernia open surgery fixed without mesh (right side). And I have a burning sensation in my stomach and my testicule is till swelling for a month now. Honestly the pain in manageable but I am worried about the swelling especially when my body is warm , my right testicule becomes hanging low and swelling almost three times as normal,when I put an ice pack on it to cool it down, it shrinks and the swelling goes up towards the surgery. So far no problem with intercourse but I am worried about the swelling I hope I hear an answer Thank you for your concern

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Aprint, Thank you for sharing your situation. Please keep us posted on your progress, CAHS

[@bernardkehoe7610]

8 months with chronic pain but mine is because i had an accident a week after surgery, I'm guessing nerve damage but I'm just praying it goes away, has anyone got a story that they did recover fully after having pain for so long. ?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Thank you for sharing your comments. We hope you get back to 100% soon!

[@moiusa]

but what could it be about the 1% that is causing them to have chronic pain? could it that in the early stages of post surgery, that they're​ not resting enough but doing to much too soon activities? or maybe stressing the are of surgery a bit too soon?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Moe, there hasn't been any evidence the we know of that early return to activities increases the chances of pain down the road.

[@scienceworld406]

My dad got his Hernia surgery 2 years ago and it’s been hurting him a lot on the same spot recently. He checked up with his surgeon that did the surgery on him, and the surgeon gave him a CT scan and told him he might have to do surgery again if they see anything. Should I be worried Dr. Harris? My mom doesn’t want him to do surgery the second time.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Science World, We base our treatments on patients symptoms. If the symptoms are limiting someones activities, then surgery would be more indicated. If they are not, surgery certainly would not be required. Recurrent hernia are rare but do happen about 1-2% of the time. Hopefully there is just a normal muscle strain or pull which will resolve on it's own with some time. Best, CAHS

[@SloanR2502]

I had my surgery almost two weeks now.open with mesh.i feel no pain i tried to get of the bed as soon as i felt better from the aneshtisia.i tried to walk every day and performed light stretching exercisies mainly pelvic.i feel light pain or maybe more sth like a precure.other than that i feel fine.i'm going to have the left one fixed too.it hasn't occured yet but i strongly believe it is better to operate before it does.i will again go with open surgery with mesh.so my question is...if i don't exeperience pain now, today, can this change over time and go to chronic pain even if i don't do anything wrong or even if i take good care of my body??i should also say that your vibeos are very informative.i live in greece ...so meeting u was not a choise, but my choises were made easier by you and a lot of my anxiaty about how to adress my hernia problem went better..thank you very much

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Xiou, Thank you for sharing your experience. All the best, CAHS

[@SloanR2502]

@@lc2453 i passed a full month yesterday.so far all good.no extreme pain.some lite discomford i can say.i can do some exercises and walk ok but i still can't run like i used to and i can't ride my bike yet.i did my sergury on a public hospital so it's not that i have a doctor to talk about how or what i feal.for instance i'm still totaly numb on my uper thy and the right side of my pubic area.from what i found on the net they must have done a neurectomy.that is probably why i don't feal pain.but a the right side and aproximatly two cm over the insition i have developed some kind of a hard kind of a tube.like scar tissue it feals.i starts there and goes verticly up and alongside the abdominals and then it fades inside when the ribs start..the doc said it's the mesh or it's from the mesh.i didn't actually understand what he is saying i must say....he said that is going to go soft over time...i hope that goes ok....if u want to ask anything i'm here

[@garageworkouts1]

I just had Laparoscopic Umbilical repair one week ago .They did not go through my belly button.Just went threw one side 3 incision points.I still have a very bothersome HARD lump under my belly button..Is this the mesh and will it go away?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

GarageWorkouts, most patients see some softening of the area where the hernia was after several weeks and/or several months. Have you seen any improvement since your surgery a month ago? CAHS

[@garageworkouts1]

Yes the hard lump behind my belly button is a lot smaller now.Surgeon says it's fluid where the hernia was.Should go away in time..

[@annfisher8256]

I'm so thankful that I didn't have any problems after my hernia repair with mesh. I have RSD and every surgery or trauma to my body it spreads. I broke my ankle at the same time and my RSD spread to my foot and leg but thankfully my pain Dr.reversed it. I have RSD in the other3 extremities and the pain is bad bc I was misdiagnosed too long. Thank God I had no problem with hernia repair.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Thank you for sharing your comments.

[@jackiewilson2196]

I had my hernia surgery in November of 2020. It was supposed to be done laparoscopic and ended up being an emergent open abdomen. the doctor said after I healed I would feel a lot better. My pain is still there like I never even had the surgery. I now have constant pain in my hips and in my back. I also wish I would have never had the surgery

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Jackie, We're sorry to hear about your situation but thank you for sharing, Best, CAHS

[@rezjrprod]

I had laparoscopic and in feeling lumps...and passion to the hip bone..3 wks out and if I turn the wrong way it's horrible

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

We hope that you're doing well since your comments 2 years ago. All the best, CAHS

[@Csidney]

Hi, I had left inguinal hernia repair with mesh. The surgeon that did the repair is no longer with the physicians office that performed the surgery. Before he left, he told me to take 800 mgs of Advil every 4 to 6 hours as needed, and that was pretty much the jist of it. Now, the surgeon that jas taken his place, has told me he doesnt see a reccurance. And its prob just nerve pain. He told me to tell my PCP, and see if she'd put me on gabapentine. I started taking that a month ago. It has not helped either. Im also having acid reflux, left side pain, as well as pain where the surgery site is. The gastro doctor is telling me it appears I have diverticulitis and distal colitis. But I dont really know what is going on with my abdomen. I just know it doesnt feel right. The pain has been ongoing for a year and 7 months now. What should I do?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Thank you for your comments. It sounds like you have a number of things going on at the same time. Trying to help guide you would be difficult to do online. For patients with ongoing pains after a hernia repair, seeing a pain specialist to help perform nerve injections for nerve pain can be a good first step.

[@amibeingpunkedugottabshytt6148]

thank u doctor.... May Yahweh continue to bless your hands

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

We hope that you're doing well since your comments 3 years ago. All the best, CAHS

[@DebraCherri]

My son had hernia surgery earlier this year and has been in chronic pain ever since. His pain runs down from his incision to his testes. He is on gabapentin and narcotics. He had been getting shots for pain in his stomach to find the nerve that might have been damaged. They have suggested giving him shots in the testes, removing one of his testes. He’s returned to the surgeon, he told my son to go to his regular doctor. The regular doctor sent him to the pain doctor, then to a neurologist, then to a urologist. It’s been a vicious cycle with no relief. The pain now goes down his leg and he walks with a cane. He throws up from the pain. He is 31 and feels hopeless. His life is no life. Everyday is filled with pain. Any suggestions, any next moves would be greatly appreciated.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Debra, it certainly sounds like you’ve had a difficult time. The referrals you have been to sound like good options. Sometimes a large University type hospital system might have expertise that could help. The UCLA hernia center in Los Angeles is one example. All the best, CAHS

[@tomservo75]

In my case, I've had multiple VENTRAL hernia surgeries, and years later I get pain in the epigastric area. Two of the hernias resulted in bowel blockage and I have IBS symptoms. I didn't really know that chronic abdominal wall or post-surgical pain was a real thing.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Thank you for your comments.

[@sarahschlender6550]

Where is the chronic pain typically located?? I haven’t been able to eat and have lost 20 pounds since 2 weeks after hernia surgery. I am currently 12 weeks out of surgery. Every time I eat I have excruciating pain. I have had an edoscopy and CT. No ulcers or problems on the endoscopy but the CT show a small reoccurance of the hernia with the mesh not in the correct place. My surgeon refuses to do anything I want the mesh out of me!

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Sarah, We're sorry to hear about your situation. We don't provide treatment for hiatal hernias which might be what you are describing. We wish you the best in getting your situation resolved, CAHS

[@ashishmaru67]

It was nice seeing video even I had an open umbilical hernia Surgery after a month I also having slight pain near to my stitches at both side I spoke to my Doctor and he said it might be gastric pain. Can you tell me why this pain is there as internal hernia portion was stitch instead of mesh as doctor said this could have create some infection so he decide to stitch internally wound area. Please let me know I am from India.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Ashish Maru, It's very difficult to comment on why you are having pains after surgery. Even after a month some patients continue to have some discomfort. I expect that over the coming weeks your pains will resolve. All the best, CAHS

[@ehwhatever2275]

I had a hernia surgery a year ago and it hurts worse than it did when I had the hernias. I literally cry from pain and I have a high pain tolerance. I even have to sleep in a ball do to it. I'm in wheelchair do to Transverse Myelitis so my activities were already limited and now I cant even roll my chair more tha 6ft without severe pain in my abdomen. I addressed my Doctor about it but he literally listened to my heart said ok and walked out.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Eh Whatever, We're sorry to hear about the pains you've had after your surgery. Some patients find that a pain specialist can provide nerve injections which can help with ongoing pain like yours. Thank you for sharing, CAHS

[@ehwhatever2275]

Nope no mesh was used

[@AdrianaGonzalez-qu4iz]

What if it's been 5 years and I feels as if you never had a hernia repair surgery. My mom had a hernia repair in 2013, and it's 2018 . And she's stays in pain. What can we do if all of the doctors say there's nothing they can do for her.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Adriana, We're sorry to hear that your mother still has pain after her surgeries. Chronic pain can be difficult to diagnose and also difficult to treat. Without knowing all the information about the prior surgeries and performing a full examination, I don't think we would be able to provide any helpful guidance for you and your mother. If her last surgery was just this year, then there is still a good chance that as she continues to heal that her pains will resolve on their own. Good luck, CAHS

[@76kamikazi]

Can you sue these doctors who performed the surgery and acts like its not their fault and they can’t do anything about it,because this is exactly what im going through right now four months after my surgery,im not chasing money but this doctor acts like he just doesn’t care.

[@heatherthomas6536]

I have chronic pain 3 years after having 9 hernias repaired in one surgery. I was diagnosed by a different doctor with nerve damage from the hernia repair and developed Gastroparesis. My doctor was very dismissive about my pain and constant daily vomiting. The Gastroparesis has gotten very bad, and 7 of my hernias have returned due to the constant vomiting. I spend about 85 percent of the day laying still in my bed so I don’t hurt so bad. Leaving the house is out of the question except for doctor appointments. I do not blame my doctor, as I am morbidly obese, for the complications in surgery. I do hold him responsible for not trying harder to see what happened. It took a year and a half to get diagnosed with Gastroparesis. I’ve lost 73 pounds since, and have been told I need to lose about 75 more to consider hernia surgery again. So I am just kind of stuck. I hope my story helps someone.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Heather Thomas, We don't work with patients with gastroparesis so we can't comment in it's diagnosis or treatment. We appreciate you sharing your story on our YT page for other patients to hear. Best, CAHS

[@VijayKumar-eh8bd]

May be mesh is infection. Then how to removed. Open or laparoscopic. After removal surgery that patient life how is going.? Normal or Risk?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Thank you for your comments. It would be difficult to provide accurate answers to such a complicated topic. Seeing a surgeon in person would be more helpful.

[@ginahill8007]

Any advice for having laparoscopic surgery after 1 month from having a c section? I can’t find anything about having this surgery after having a c section so soon!

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Gina, Since hernias do not go away on their own, and frequently get larger, having them repaired sooner rather than later would make sense. Good luck in your upcoming surgery, CAHS

[@alexolo2257]

Hey, I had my inguinal hernia surgery on the right side 2 months ago. I have no pain there but I feel discomfort and pain on the left side. Is it a normal thing? I did workout twice 5 weeks after surgery but just with bodyweight and after that I have some pain there and I feel kinda inflated there. Can I workout with pain?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Alex, Having pain on the opposite side from a hernia repair would be very unusual. That pain might be from something else, or just a normal groin pull/strain. For our patients, we would encourage them to either see their surgeon to confirm, or to rest and take anti-inflammatories. Good luck, CAHS

[@JuSTYoLIWuZUP]

I just had surgery on the 9th of December at Stanford University I had a massive hernia repair and skin removal. I was re-admitted for adhesions and bowel obstruction. I have been on a soft food diet, but I feel like a lump in the middle of my chest, right where the stomach starts. It is painful. Is this normal? I do feel something foreign.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Yolanda, It sounds like you've had a challenging month. We're sure that the Stanford doctors are taking good care of you so it might be best if you inquire about your lump with them for a more accurate assessment. Good luck in your recovery, CAHS

[@richk3874]

Hey doctor it’s been 9 months since I had bi lateral laparoscopic surgery and I’m still feeling pain in my right testicle everyday. Is this normal or should I get it checked out?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Rich K, Most patients should have no ongoing pains in their testicles after a hernia surgery. For patients with that type of pain, we would suggest that they see a Urologist. Best, CAHS

[@jpmb9137]

Hello Dr. I just want to ask if the swelling of groin is normal after laparoscopic surgery ? And how to deal with it . Thank u

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

John Paul Bundalian, We've discussed swelling in some of our prior posts on this video and others, but rest assured swelling is 100% expected after any surgery, including hernia surgery. Ice is usually very helpful for the first few days after surgery. Best, CAHS

[@jpmb9137]

@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists thank u very much Dr.

[@monjurzaman8237]

Dear Dr. I'm 31. I have had L4 surgery. After two months of surgery there was no pain. But sometimes now I feel pain when I wake up in morning. I can not walk straight up when more pain.Then I am lying parallel to my bed for a lot of time and eat medicine then the pain decreases. When I walk so much (2/3 mile) then the problem is less. Is the disc hernia again? What are the problems? Sir,,, give me advice, please.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Monjur Zaman, Unfortunately we don't work with spinal disc herniations so we would suggest seeing your surgeon for an evaluation. CAHS

[@VijayKumar-eh8bd]

Bilateral medium size inguinal hernia. Open surgery is good method.? For quality life.?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

We discuss in other videos the pros and cons of open and laparoscopic surgeries.

[@dragonhank4217]

I had 2 operations for the same inguinal hernia, the 1st time they installed the mesh after 2 months I had extreme chronic pain and suffered 8 months with this pain. Then after a year the surgeon went back in and took it out and closed it without a mesh, now I'm suffering a extremely chronic pain from scar tissue..Currently I'm looking for a pain management doctor to help me manage my pain. This is what the surgeon suggested to me because he said there was nothing he can do. He said it would be worse if he went in for third time. What do you suggest?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Hank, I'm sorry to hear about your difficult post operative course. Having pain 2 months after your initial surgery is extremely rare, and I'm not sure we would characterize that as 'chronic' pain so quickly. Regardless, having the mesh removed sounded like the best next step. I think your surgeon is correct, having a pain specialist evaluate your case and possibly offer some pain and steroid injections might be just what is needed to get you back to normal. Best, CAHS

[@dragonhank4217]

I finally found a plastic surgeon who will work on my case, I'm scheduled for the 14th. He is not charging me a fee but I have to come up with the expense for the use of the OR. PreOp on Thursday and MRI on friday. Wish me luck...

[@dragonhank4217]

Clean Bodies Well the surgeon found that there were 2 stitches through the nerve which was giving me such intense pain, so he took them out and then detached the nerve. Now I have a larger area which went numb with occasional discomfort in mobility, but far from the pain I had before.

[@manwaiyeung1735]

Hank Yip I

[@LeBrow420]

Hank Yip How did the surgeon find out about the two stitches through the nerves, through MRI or during surgery?

[@billyzanghi7264]

I just had emergency incarcerated abdominal hernia surgery done here in Vegas nov 5 2019 ,open surgery was done and I'm home healing and just hope for a speedy recovery...pain is tough..I'm out for a month from work and I barback here in vegas.....best to all

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Billy Zanghi, Thank you for sharing your story with other patients. We're wishing you a speedy recovery as well, CAHS

[@gingjangproductions5967]

Oh my what was the symptoms of having an incarceration?

[@k.baskarreddybhaskarreddy3828]

After Herniya surgery how many months after do the outside work , heavy lifting ,gym ,bike driving .. pls give me the suggestion doctor

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

K.baskar, We allow our patients to return to full duty at work and the gym by 3 weeks after their surgery. Best, CAHS

[@timothylewis3641]

The gas pain 10 days post op. Stomach still bloated feels like I’m being cut from the inside. The trap gas is worse than labor pain

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Timothy, Thank you for sharing your situation. We hope that at this point you've recovered well. Best, CAHS

[@arturobardales4326]

Hello doctor I had a hernia surgery with mesh, after a couple months I start feeling pain like something burn, the doctor told me could be the spermatic cord might get swallen, and I cant even exercises like before, can you help me please or advise what kind of doctor or specialist should attend, (my surgean retired) thanks.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Arturo, patients that we see with pain 6 months or more after their surgery, we would refer them to a pain specialist to have a workup and treatment. That can sometimes consist of injections to help reduce the pain.

[@lujinaeid1119]

Hi Dr, I had an umbilical hernia surgery when I was around 7, I'm 18 now. I have been suffering pain, tingling, almost even stretching/ripping sensation near my snitches . I usually feel them when I exercise, sometimes if I'm bloated but quite often when I'm not doing anything, just lying down. Is that normal ? I have done an ultrasound but my hernia isn't recurring for now at least. What do you recommend I do because it's quite bothersome and painful but I don't know how to deal with it really . Hope to get a reply from you soon.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Lujina, Unfortunately there isn't a simple answer to your question and your situation. It's not clear what could be causing the symptoms you are describing especially since the hernia has not returned. Most patients do not develop ongoing chronic pain after umbilical hernia repairs so again it's not a common situation. We wish you the best in your care, CAHS

[@lujinaeid1119]

California Hernia Specialists: Specialty Care for Hernia Repair , I was hoping I'd find an explanation but thank you, I appreciate it !

[@waliddib5291]

@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists after readings the comments, it seems like it's not as uncommon as the doctors claim. some papers also show above 40% chance of chronic pain. when will we stop downplaying this issue.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

@@waliddib5291 Walid, Thank you for your comments, CAHS

[@kingrobthegreat7446]

Dr, I got a laprospoic surgey done 7mos ago. I was good until a week ago. I have some discomfort where the hernia was due to my physical job at a warehouse. Do you think I undid anyhting. Should i be worried abt the fatigue i have been feeling in the last few days?? is that a sympton of a hernia??

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

King RoB ThE GreaT, Having discomfort in the groin after heavy activities isn't the sign of a recurrent hernia. More commonly we see with our patients that they have a muscle strain or pull. We recommend to them that they rest if possible and to try a 1-2 week course of anti-inflammatories (motrin, advil, etc). Best, CAHS

[@kingrobthegreat7446]

@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists ty

[@netkotreci3135]

Good day doctor. I need your help. 10 days ago I had right inguinal TEP laparoscopic surgery. 6 days after the surgery I got lower back pain on the right side. The pain spot is between ribs and pelvis, it doesn't spread, just on the same place, but I feel pain when I stand, especialy when I walk or in some movement. When I'm in the bed I feel it but not so hard. Could that be postoperative complicatio? What should I do?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Many patients get stiff and sore from not being as active during the recovery process as they are used to being. After returning to exercise and activities most patients find their stiffness and back pains improve dramatically.

[@netkotreci3135]

@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists Thank you very much doctor. And by the way when can start to drive a car after the surgery?

[@mayonnaiseaddicttoshi3273]

I am 24, I had surgery 3 months ago and i feel a little and bothersome pain in my groin. I wish to know if this pain will go away. I want to be a police next year. Can this hinder me to join the training?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Toshi, We clear our police officers and firemen to return to full duty as early as 3 weeks after their surgery. It would seem that after 3 months you should be able to perform any and all duties required for police training. Some patients have discomfort in the area of their surgery for months which often resolves with both time, and with anti-inflammatories like Advil or Motrin. Good luck in police academy, CAHS

[@a1000face88]

I asked the lady who was doing my check up “ive been getting groin pains” she just straight up said “i dont know”. Yeah not very comforting if I’m getting my check ups from someone who doesn’t know anything about side effects of hernia repairs. I have an active job they said after 2 weeks i can go back to heavy lifting. I would testicular pain at random and I gotta say “not fun”

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

a1000face88, We're sorry to hear about your ongoing groin pains. 99% of patients post operative pain will resolve after about 2-3 weeks. There are a small number of patients who will develop ongoing pains after that time. Best, CAHS

[@HT-ul9ff]

Great information. I had a robotic inguinal hernia surgery 1 month back. The pain was almost gone by day 7. However, 10 days after the surgery I had a painful ejaculation and since then I have a throbbing pain in the groin area while sitting. The longer I sit, the pain increases more. The ultrasound says there is no reoccurrence. However, I am freaking out as its always there in my mind and is impacting my work. Do you think it has to do something with the nerves and can become chronic ? Is there any way to figure out the reason ?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

HT, Having some ongoing symptoms at the one month mark is not uncommon and almost always resolve with time. Best, CAHS

[@jocia9017]

Same thing happened to me but after 6 years post op. Excruciating pain on the hernia site.

[@whatmynamemitch]

Same exact ting happened to me. 7 days felt fine. Around day 10 i had intercourse and now I have pain in testicles.I am about 3 weeks out of my surgery date so I am worried that I injured it. Did yours ever get better?

[@yafet021]

I have the same problem , how did you resolve yours? 😢

[@yafet021]

@@whatmynamemitch I have the same problem , how did you resolve yours? 😢

[@blazing48s]

So does he mean a mesh will be put in after the initial surgery if someone is suffering chronic pain?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Usually a mesh will not be placed AFTER the index surgery, but will be placed during the initial hernia surgery.

[@ailbae1004]

how much time I can go to the gym and push 30kg. I do not want to lose all my muscle mass. and worse to wait for an surgery to cut the nerves and wait another months. i will lose all.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

ailba e, Most patients find that after their recovery from hernia surgery, that they are able to return to full activities including lifting 30kg weights and other strenuous work. We advise patients to continue their normal activities up to the time of surgery as tolerated since it doesn't usually make the hernia larger or complicate the surgery. Good luck, CAHS

[@factor.9612]

Hello doctor. I had a bilateral inguinal laporoscopic hernia repair 2 weeks ago with mesh on both sides. I cannot walk like I used to do, cannot turn my hip like before , If I laugh or sneeze I'll be in pain . I am experiencing severe pain on the right side above and around the hip area and the pain is also hitting my lower back area. What do you suggests? Thanks alot

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Hasan, Patients can often take 3 weeks to begin feeling back to normal after any surgery, including hernia surgery. We recommend to our patients that taking Advil/Ibuprofen can help with the inflammation after any surgery, including hernia surgery. Good luck in your recovery, CAHS

[@factor.9612]

@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists Thank you doctor, I am starting to feel better now however the pain is still there, I am taking proxen which gave me a good relief, going back to work next week

[@Highlander9740]

I've had three hernia surgeries and am left with chronic pain that has led to other problems. I wish that there was something to take for it. Doctors imply that it's all in my head.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

We're sorry to hear about your situation. Pain specialists can sometimes determine which nerve may be playing a role in a patients chronic pain and treat that nerve. Larger University centers often specialize in helping patients like yourself. All the best, CAHS

[@phoenixrising1576]

Hi I have still got got pain swelling under my incision from umbilical hernia repair? It feels like a swelling to the touch along the internal scar. 2 days ago I was feeling around my belly button and applied pressure. The swelling went down only to appear 24 hours later again. I have done this twice now. The pain is like an ache like when you have a sore pimple on your lip. Like a pressure ache. When I reduced the lump it eased some of the ache but there was then a sharp pin prick pain. It to me sounds like a blister has formed over the internal scar? Or internal umbilical swelling? It has eased somewhat but still quite sore. I have read about a seroma and hematoma and that they eventually drain themselves? Could it be hardened scar tissue inside?? When I stretch my belly button the lump flattens out and the pain goes. I've applied a bit of tape there.Isaw a nurse four weeks ago and she said she felt s lump but didn't know what it was. I saw a Dr who said everything was fine and should go in 4 weeks that is over 4 weeks ago. I had this pain and swelling for 2 months and it is very affecting for something so small. There is a very clear difference to the feel of the internal tissue when I apply pressure. It becomes very soft to the touch only to return. I'm really fed up with my drs and don't trust them? How do you think I should approach this and should I just wait and hope the swelling flu tension absorbs in time? It's really quite sore. I really hope you can help? I'm annoyed because I should have been back weeks ago fully fit. I pulled the area by a sudden jerk 3 days after surgery on 16th December. CT scan and x-ray ruled out any other issue or return of the hernia.Many thanks please let me know what you think. The fact that I can reduce it myself suggests some type of internal blister covering the internal scar aiding it's healing. It is going down all be it very very slowly. It's really is a right pain in the belly button! AK

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Phoenix Rising, It is not uncommon to develop a seroma, or a fluid collection, at the location of the hernia and the hernia repair. They can take months to completely resolve. All the best, CAHS

[@phoenixrising1576]

@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists I think it is a seroma! My surgeon didn't notice it last month. I told him I was sore. The lump is directly above my belly button under the middle of the incision. Feels like a stone.im not sure what to do. Should I leave it? It's not as bad today. I'm hoping it self absorbs soon as it's in a very annoying postion. The pain must be from the way it is stretching the skin. I'm very annoyed that it wasn't spotted. I guess it's not normal to have a hard lump above the belly button? I can't see it just feel it...thank u very much for that. Should I get it drained?

[@abdulhafeez485]

hi i had inguinal hernia.surgery.on right side.no mesh was.used by dictor and after 2 year during abs.exercise i experienced pain than now it still going when ever i do exercise or lift some weight i feel pain ,what shoild i.do no complication shown in ultrasound give some directons plz thnx

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Abdul, It's difficult for us to provide a clear reason for why you are having the pains during exercise. If an ultrasound does not show a recurrent hernia, then it would more likely be a muscle issue. Often rest and anti-inflammatories are beneficial for pains with strains or pulls. Best, CAHS

[@karbiebarbie2023]

I had hernia surgery 3 days ago and im in bed in pain and im jus hoping it calms down soon.😢 i am in alot of pain i dont recall the non robotic surgery leaving me in this much pain

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Thank you for your comments. Good luck in your recovery.

[@LiV-tf3gp]

I am 51, had an open laprascopic mesh (30cm) repair about 3 weeks ago. Stapled and drains was removed a week ago. When bending down I experience the most gruesome burning pain on my left side (tummy meets the leg) - did ask dr about it they said the did not work that side... when I press into it I am able to turn or bend... I have never before had pain like that

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Liona, It's difficult to tell what could be causing your symptoms. The fact that the surgery was only 3 weeks ago indicates that there is still a lot of healing going on and it may take longer for you to feel normal. Our guess is that with more time, many of the issues you are describing would improve on their own. Best, CAHS

[@maxxpayne309]

I have a f up hernia surgery it looks like I’ve been shot I’ve had 3 since I was a boy it’s healed but it’s terrible looking and I can’t do any core work due to the fact it will just hurt like hell can I get a surgery to straighten out this problem or should I leave it alone and give up

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Maxxpayne309, You're right, recurrent and complicated hernias can be very challenging for you the patient and for us as the medical team. It clearly sounds like a difficult situation which I don't think we can accurately comment on based just on the information provided. Maybe seeing a surgeon at a larger University type hospital would be the next step. Good luck, CAHS

[@alaplex100]

Hello Dr. I had a recurrent right Inguinal hernia last year. I had open repair for it 10 months ago and still get bouts of pain in groin and right side about once a month. The pain usually lasts for about 5 days then resolves with rest. Is it possible that the this is just a side effect of surgery or could it be another recurrence. Also still have swelling and wonder if this could be a seroma causing the pain.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Alaplex100, Seroma's very rarely if ever cause pain after surgery. Having a recurrence would be very unusual as well this quickly after surgery and without a new bulge. Having a pain specialist investigate the possible causes from hip issues to back issues to post-surgery issues would be a good first step. Best, CAHS

[@alaplex100]

@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists Thanks so much for your insight

[@douglasmoore5192]

@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists I had my hernia surgery almost 3 months ago, can't you get a bulge just from inflammation during the 3 to 6 month recovery and that does not mean a recurrence and just a part of the healing process ?

[@Legionnaire7777]

3 months and still in chronic pain! Have to use a walking stick most of the time. Not happy at all wish I never had the operation.

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Connell MacCool, We're sorry to hear that you are still having pain 3 months after your surgery. All the best, CAHS

[@hamas2124]

3 months you still the pain? are you okay now?

[@billytheweasel]

Check Desrada method guys.

[@TheEggyeggy]

Get checked out m8 I been in pain for 3 years after my op got checked tonight at a and e to find out it failed

[@oldsman4446]

What mesh do you use for femoral hernia?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Peter, it depends on whether the surgery is open or laparoscopic, but usually we use the same mesh as for inguinal hernias. Best, CAHS

[@ceethelight1239]

i had double hernia mess lapacsopic surgery two weeks ago surgeon did three port holes one in belly buttom an one under it an one under that one they were straight up an down about inch an half apart is this normal an im having real bad stabing pain close to belly button going see surgeon today do you think this go away only happens when i move a sertain way like puttin shoes on gettin in low car thanks

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Ceethelight, having sharp pains at the incision sites after any surgery is very common. This can take days to weeks to resolve completely. Best, CAHS

[@ceethelight1239]

@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists thank you.

[@JOHNNYSGIRL1960]

I had umbilical surgery a week ago. My abdomen is causing me extreme pain around my bellybutton. Is this normal?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Having pain and swelling after a hernia surgery is normal and usually resolves in days/weeks.

[@erangapeiris7056]

After 2 months of surgery i get some random pains. is it normal? will it go away? what should I do to reduce or avoid that? please help me

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Eranga Peiris, We tell our patients that is is normal to feel occasional random discomfort and short duration pains for months after their surgery. These episodes should become less and less as the months go by and most patients will have complete resolution by one year. Best, CAHS

[@jhonaguila7433]

Dr i have open surgery 11month ago now i experiance ocasionaly pain and discomfor on my groin area. and under my surgery area. last day i undergo ultrasound and all are normal result. My eguenal canal are close, Is this normal doctor? When the wether is very cold or wenter i experiance also pain but not to much Im from Philippine God bless Dr

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Jhon, Having pains up to a year after any surgery, including hernia surgery, is very common. If those pains continue, or cause your activities to become limited, then a pain specialist could offer some suggestions. Best, CAHS

[@tarouu2493]

Doctor is it normal to feel pain in mesh site in cold weather?

[@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists]

Leeon, We haven't heard of patients specifically having pains in cold weather. Sorry, CAHS