Pain After Laparoscopic Surgery
As a competitive powerlifter weighing 84 kg and standing at 178 cm tall, I recently underwent laparoscopic surgery for a right inguinal hernia, just two days ago. Initially, I felt surprisingly little discomfort. I took a taxi home and carried two backpacks weighing around 8 to 9 kg in total (each roughly 4 to 5 kg) up to my apartment on the third floor, then allowed myself to rest for a full day without engaging in any further physical activities. However, the following day brought some unexpected sensations; I began experiencing soreness around my belly button. During the procedure, I had a VLOC stitch placed in the aponeurosis because I inquired about his technique to avert the possibility of hernia recurrence through the 10 mm trocar site. Now, I find myself wondering: Is this level of discomfort typical post-surgery? Laughing or even speaking loudly is challenging due to a feeling of tension in that area, and I’ve noticed that the scar tissue appears firmer. I suspect the other two smaller scars (approximately 5 mm) may also be getting hard.
Answers (1)
7/10/2025, 3:20:41 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s common to experience some discomfort after laparoscopic surgery, including soreness around the incision sites, especially just two days post-operation. Your activity level shortly after surgery may contribute to increased sensations of pain and firmness in the area.
Explanation
After laparoscopic surgery, especially for a hernia repair, it’s typical to feel soreness and tension as part of the healing process. The presence of a VLOC stitch and the body's natural response to surgery can result in firmness around the scar tissue. Laughing or speaking loudly can strain the abdominal area, leading to discomfort. The firmness is often due to swelling and healing tissue, which should gradually improve as you heal.
Next Steps
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Rest and Avoid Strain: Continue resting and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for at least one to two weeks post-surgery, even if you feel well. This will help the healing process and prevent straining your abdomen.
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Manage Pain: Use over-the-counter pain relief as needed (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen) to help manage discomfort, following the recommended dosage instructions.
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Observe Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms. If you notice increased pain, signs of infection (like redness, warmth, or discharge from the incision), or if the firmness does not subside over the next week, these could be reasons for concern.
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Gentle Movement: Engage in light activities such as walking, which can aid in recovery, but ensure not to push yourself or engage in heavy lifting.
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Follow-Up: Schedule a follow-up appointment with your surgeon or healthcare provider for proper evaluation, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.
Taking these steps should support your recovery. Always listen to your body and prioritize rest during this time. Should you need further assurance or notice any concerning changes, feel free to reach out for more guidance.
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