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!