Is it normal to have swelling and pain 4 weeks after laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair?

While I have not done a laparoscopic hernia repair since my residency as a general surgery resident some years ago, I can tell you from a plastic surgery standpoint, it is completely normal to have swelling and pain the progresses throughout the day (as people are active during the day and rest at night so the pain and swelling resolves at night).  At just 4 weeks out, this is likely normal, especially if you just saw your surgeon and he/she thought everything looked OK.  If the pain becomes unbearable, or he experiences any redness in the area or fever, call your surgeon's office right away.  Best of luck to your boyfriend with his recovery!

Hello, and thank you for your request regarding whether it is normal to experience swelling and pain four weeks after undergoing a laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. Thank you for your boyfriend’s history. It is not normal to have significant swelling and pain four weeks after laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. Although it is not normal, it is not uncommon for swelling and pain to occur four weeks after an Inguinal hernia repair. Your boyfriend must follow up with his surgeon. Several factors must be considered, including the specific dynamics of the initial hernia injury and its subsequent repair. Was mesh used? Does he have an underlying pathology? Is there a trapped nerve? Does your boyfriend have lower back problems or disc problems? During the hernia repair, was fat or small intestine removed? All these factors contribute to the overall healing process. Most plastic surgeons would suggest your boyfriend follow up with his surgeon frequently. Good luck. Thank you for your request regarding whether it is normal to experience tough swelling and pain four weeks after a laparoscopic repair. Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, RealSelf Hall of Fame, and RealSelf Doctor Advisory Board for Medical Review and Consumer Panel.)