Hi, I had the same op in 2005. I struggled with any form of exercise including walking for about 6 weeks. This is about the time they say you should not lift anything heavy let alone walking. I must say after about 2 months I was back mountain biking and playing golf so just be patient and take it easy,,, good luck

I had surgery with the mesh about 5 weeks again. I am now experiencing burning paid around the site and occassional sharp pains. Not enough for pain medication, but it doesn't seem to be getting any better. My surgeon only check me one week out and then didn't need to see me again. I am wondering if this is normal or you would get back to the doctor?

Now I have cause to be optimistic. My surgery was about two months ago. Pain has basically subsided but still some lingering discomfort.
Johnny hernia you make the outlook a lot better. I think patience is the key. Set goals when you're feeling better. Get back to your old tricks in a slow meticulous manner.

I am 4 weeks post-op from incisional hernia repair and still trying to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I am still on pain meds which I find I have to take one or two every day. I try to walk around the block every day but I cannot sit for very long or lie flat...I keep hoping to wake up and feel great again! My surgeon tells me it will take 12 weeks to fully recover, I just cannot wait that long.

Confetta,
I'll be 12 weeks out from BI-LATERAL surgery on Monday. It hasn't been easy, but I see incremental improvements daily. Low level pain still lingers (one side) but it's more annoying than painful. Walking, swimming, light lifting are OK but I've paid the price if I overdue it. The advise from other contributors is good: patience (of which I'm lacking) is key. Keep the pain/inflammation in check with basic medication and let the body do the rest. Time , I'm consistently told, will heal the wound.

Thanks.

I actually drove myself to the grocery store today, did some shopping and came home..I was pooped and needed help with the groceries, but it was nice to get out like a "normal person" once again. I did notice I was feeling lightheaded afterwards, not sure what that is..trying to wean myself off of Percocet too. Still have left side pain where the mesh went in and feel slugish. Just wondering when I will get my energy back?

How long did you have swelling? I am 5 weeks post op umbilical hernia repair with mesh and still have moderate swelling around the belly button area. It makes moving around uncomfortable. Do you think this is normal? I'm seeing the Dr. again soon but wanted your experiences/opinions.

Thanks.