Showering After Hernia Surgery — Instructions and Advice Following hernia surgery, some patients are unsure about how soon they can return to day-to-day activities, such as showering. This blog combines different perspectives for a detailed explanation.
Timing for Showering
Note: In general, most medical advice is that patients can be discharged 24-48 hours after the surgery and if the doctor agrees without any contraindications you would be allowed to take a shower! The duration allows the incision site to begin the healing process, important to prevent infection and potential complications14.
Recommendations: It is generally recommended that a patient wait 2 days (48 hours) prior to showering following the surgery with some sources stating that this may be done at 36 hours post-surgery by removing any dressings beforehand26. Following the specific instructions your surgeon gives for wound care and showering is crucial.
Wound Care Considerations
Drying the Incision — After showering, make sure you pat (NOT RUB) and dry off the incision. Delicate Healing: It reduces irritation, and instead supports the healing process13
Stay Dry: Patients can shower, but no baths until two weeks past surgery to keep the surgical site from getting submerged in water. This caution prevents the incision from getting too wet, which could cause infection45.
PS: No Post-Surgical Activity
Gradual return to activities: After undergoing hernia surgery, patients are usually advised to resume light activities and avoid heavy lifting or vigorous exercise for a few weeks. Bringing the calories back into your diet as you continue to recover can help eliminate any complications12.
Surveillance is key: Patients should be watching their for any increased redness, swelling or discharge at the incision sites after showering. If symptoms develop that are of concern, a healthcare provider should be contacted45.
So, in short, after 24–48 hours a person can take shower if he follows the rules of proper care and follow all the specific advices given by the doctors.
