Had 3 hernia surgeries over the years, the first was the old type, no mesh and failed, now they use mesh to reinforce the area. After the last surgery I went back to the doc for the post op appointment, sore still and carefully climbed onto the bed, he said don't worry, it won't tear, it's fiSed for good. He was right, 10 years and no problems at all. If one side has gone you will probably need the other side done too at some stage. As for recovery, walk and move, sitting down is bad. My doc said the quicker you get moving the better, less scare tissue. Just need to get the flexibility back so you can get out on the water again.
I had an inguinal and femoral hernia op 31/9/15. Yes it is painful and damn uncomfortable. It is only now I am feeling comfortable paddling. My first surf was around 7 weeks after surgery, it was ok but still felt uncomfy. Had a good surf yesterday and you beauty feels good. As airsail said get moving (slowly) I did walking at the start of second week. coughing, sneezing and laughing can be extremely painful. Even 4-6 weeks down the track it feels weird inside maybe even pains at times. DON'T over do it. I used a scar repair cream and there is no welting at all, my op was open cut not keyhole.
