Post-operative instructions Umbilical Hernia Repair

Some pain or discomfort after your surgery is usual.
For pain relief: take Panadol, Panadeine, Panadeine Forte, or Endone as prescribed.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (egBrufen) can also be taken ifthe discomfort is still troublesome. This will work together with Panadol type drugs.

You can shower within 12 hours after your surgery.
The dressings are waterproof and will resist water from a shower.
You should not take a bath or swim until the wounds are dry.
Keep the waterproof dressings in place for 1 week.
Under the dressing is some special ‘wool’ that pushes the belly button back into place.
Peel the dressings off just before a shower at 1 week after surgery.
There will be a little blood stained fluid and the ‘wool’ under the dressings, just rinse it off in the shower and dab dry with a clean towel.

The wounds are closed with buried, dissolving sutures and ‘steri-strips’.
You do not need to have stitches removed.
The paper steri-strips can be peeled off with the dressings or when they start to lift on their own.
Wound infection is an uncommon complication of surgery, but might require treatment:
Contact Dr Crawford or your GP if you are worried or:
There is increasing pain, redness, smell or discharge from the wound

It is recommended that you have 7-14 days off work and no
heavy lifting (more than a chair) for 6 weeks
You should avoid rigorous, competitive sport for 4-6 weeks
You can drive as soon as you can safely control the vehicle (usually a few days after surgery)

Take routine medications from the day after surgery

If you have not already booked a follow up appointment, please phone the rooms and book an appointment for 3-4 weeks’ time

www.drmichaelcrawford.com.au

Download the Post-operative instructions for Umbilical Hernia Repair