Almost all patients who have undergone surgery inquire: Why did my stomach grow larger following hernia surgery? Swelling, which always happens after the hernia repair, is the cause. Swelling is typically normal and will go away with time. However, occasionally it can be a sign of an infection, an inflammatory process within the body, or more severe side effects from surgery.
You must adhere to your doctor’s instructions to the letter in order to reduce the likelihood of complications and abnormal bloating. We’ll explain the causes of the swelling in our article, along with some quick tips for recovering from laparoscopic surgery to remove an abdominal hernia.

Causes of Bigger Stomach

Before repositioning the gut and abdominal contents that are the cause of the bulge during the hernia procedure, the surgeon will make incisions in several layers of skin and muscle. But after a procedure like this, the body reacts by swelling in order to protect itself.

The body produces more fluid as it starts to heal in order to aid in the healing process. When the fluid reaches the injured site, it can resemble swelling because it is rich in nutrients and cells that aid in tissue repair. However, when this fluid sits in one area for a few days, it can become hard. This is why many people may feel a hard lump or ridge near the incision site following their hernia surgery.

Abdominal bloating and a sense of weightiness are frequently accompanied by a larger stomach following surgery. The shoulder, chest, and groin areas are frequently the source of patient complaints of discomfort. This is a result of leftover air in the abdominal cavity following surgery. Typically, surgeons will prescribe painkillers to treat unpleasant symptoms. Please never self-medicate! Only take medication at the doctor’s advice!

You should immediately consult a surgeon if the following symptoms occur during the recovery period:

• nausea and vomiting;
• severe abdominal pain;
• frequent constipation;
• constant lethargy;
• decreased sensitivity;
• sexual dysfunction.

None of the aforementioned symptoms can be indicative of serious complications. You should see your doctor, though, if they start to show up six months after your laparoscopy. He ought to suggest more monitoring and offer suggestions for additional therapies.

Is a Bigger Stomach Normal After Hernia Surgery?

Following hernia surgery, it is typical for the surgical site to grow larger and develop a firm ridge-like sensation. Many people feel this hard ridge or lump and are concerned that their hernia has returned, but it is typically only swelling and will go away within a few weeks or months.

Most swelling in hernia surgery patients disappears within the first few weeks of recovery. The length of time it takes for swelling to go down, however, can vary depending on daily routines, excessive fluid buildup, poor diet, underlying health conditions, and the size, type, and extent of the repair.

In very rare cases, swelling after a hernia surgery may be a sign of a complication, such as a hernia recurrence of infection. Reddening of the skin along with pain and an enlarged stomach may indicate an infection.

How to Reduce Bigger Stomach Symptoms After Hernia Surgery?

Avoid Constipation

Frequent constipation leads to the accumulation of gas, a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen, and an increase in its size. Surgery is just one of many potential causes for this. Patients are encouraged to use a range of home remedies and prescription medications to prevent constipation. When properly ingested, the discomfort in the abdomen will go away and the stool will resume its normal function.

Observe the Diet

Following hernia surgery, abdominal pain and distention can be greatly reduced by avoiding foods that produce gas. Concentrate on eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly foods like berries, avocados, ginger, cucumbers, and bananas, which are packed with vitamins and nutrients that prevent gas and bloating.

Additionally, try to avoid spicy and greasy foods, artificial sweeteners, dairy products, and sodas, as these foods and beverages are common causes of bloating.

Avoid Heavy Exertion

Avoid doing any strenuous lifting or participating in strenuous sports while you are recovering from hernia repair surgery. The patient does not necessarily need to spend all of his or her time in bed. Walk, and avoid sudden movements and turns. Keep your abdominal muscles from being overworked. Give yourself permission to rest if you’re feeling tired. Make sure you have a restful night’s sleep. Body recovery will be accelerated in this mode.

Promote Regular Bowel Movements

Healthy bowel function is an important component of preventing discomfort, gas, and bloating. Focusing on encouraging regular bowel movements after surgery is crucial because anesthesia, surgery, and medications can all slow down the digestive system and cause constipation.

To help the digestive system, put an emphasis on eating a diet high in fiber. You should also engage in regular physical activity to keep the digestive system active. Stool softeners can assist in maintaining regularity and preventing constipation if you are still having trouble having regular bowel movements.

Follow the Advice of Your Doctor

The patient is always given thorough instructions on how to care for the incision sites and what to avoid during the healing process before being discharged. Follow the surgeon’s instructions to the letter because doing so will lower your risk of complications. The results of ignoring them might not be predictable.

Additionally, remember to visit your surgeon frequently after surgery. He can ensure that the hernia is healing properly and expeditiously and remove any potential issues that might hinder a full recovery.

Conclusion

As a result of hernia repair surgery, swelling and bloating are frequently reported side effects, giving the stomach a larger-than-normal appearance. After surgery, swelling and bloating can last for several months, sometimes longer.

There are actions that can be taken to lessen swelling and aid in healing to make the stomach smaller. Examples include using ice, concentrating on a healthy diet, staying active, and encouraging regular bowel movements. Rest and time, however, are the most crucial factors in reducing swelling.

It is advised to see a doctor if the swelling lasts for three months or longer, seems to get worse, or if there is redness near the incision site.