Question:
Wondering if my pain level is normal 11 days post op? abdo hernia

I had hernia repair/abdominoplasty last Monday, Im getting around ok, almost 17 pounds of skin/fat removed, but I still have pretty severe pain that actually feels like someone has a belt that they are tightening around my waist. Still have 1 drain in (1 removed friday) which isnt really a pain factor, but swelling seems to be the cause of the current pain. I feel like I should be off meds by now, should be doing better, I feel like my torso is too short, if that makes any sense...any thoughts? Thanks! Donna (open RNY/327/159)    — donnalawbabe (posted on August 1, 2004)

August 1, 2004
If your doctor sees no problem with you being on the pain meds, then I wouldn't worry. Hernia repair is not minor surgery--it is considered more involved than the abdominoplasty. Expect pain--there was cutting of muscles to access the hernia, I am sure. Just watch your activity. I had hernia repair, abdominoplasty, breast lift and augmentation, and thigh lift July 7 and still have pain--everywhere--at different times. Surgeon keeps reminding me that it takes time to heal. Take care--and don't compare your recovery to anyone else's.
   — Margaret S.

August 2, 2004
I had a hernia repair and abdominoplasty 2 years ago, and I was in very severe pain for about a month, and it took about 6 months before I was out of daily pain. This is a big reconstruction, and you have to give yourself time and rest. I wore my binder with compression pads 24x7 for 8 weeks, and periodically after that. Rest, rest rest
   — Cara F.

August 2, 2004
I had my abdominalplasty/panniculectomy and 2 hernias repaired 6 weeks ago and still have pain. It is a major surgery. I still have a bit of swelling, the more I do the more swelling and pain I have. The pain is not unbearable but it is still pain. The first 2 weeks are the hardest. You will feel a lot of relief when all the drains are removed and even more relieved when the staples are removed. When you swell it is pulling the stitches beneath the skin that is why you feel more pain at that time. As long as your Dr. has given you meds take them. You will feel the tightness for some time, I am 6 weeks out and still have that feeling. I have heard that most still feel soreness 6 months later.
   — lmonroeny