Aging Gracefully and with Great Health

Aging Gracefully and with Great Health

Is Open Or Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery Right For You?

by For Content

Both open and laparoscopic hernia surgeries offer a path to healing, but there are differences in the procedures that could make one a better option for you. Before making a decision, you need to understand the differences and what the recovery period could potentially be like.  

What Can You Expect From Open Surgery?

Open hernia surgery is the traditional method used for hernia repair. It is typically done with local anesthesia and takes less than an hour to complete if there are no complications.  

It is the more cost-effective measure and can be used on even the most complex hernias. Due to the method used during the procedure, the amount of discomfort you will feel post-op is mild to moderate. In many instances, it can be controlled with the help of an over-the-counter pain reliever.  

The recovery period for open surgery is usually a few weeks. You can even return to work after the first week. Your doctor will most likely place limitations on what you can and cannot do. For instance, you will have weight limitations on what you can lift. Depending on the progress of your recovery, you might be able to return to exercising and other athletic activities without issue.  

What Can You Expect from Laparoscopic Surgery?

Laparoscopic surgery is not as common as open surgery, but it is gaining in popularity. The minimally invasive surgery can sometimes mean less pain and a faster recovery than the open hernia surgery. However, there are some differences between it and open surgery that can influence your decision. 

For instance, the procedure is usually more expensive than open surgery. It is a bit more complicated, too. As a result, the procedure can take longer to complete. Your doctor will also use general anesthesia, which means that there is significantly more pre-surgery preparation that has to occur.

If you have a larger hernia, your doctor will likely not recommend this procedure. It is challenging to complete the repair steps needed using this minimally invasive procedure. On the upside, you will likely experience no pain following the completion of the procedure.

The shortened recovery period does not mean that you can return to everyday activities without restrictions. Your doctor could ask you to refrain from activities, such as exercising, for a brief period until he or she has assessed your condition.

There are even more considerations that need to be factored into your decision regarding open and laparoscopic hernia surgery. Your doctor can point out the differences between the procedures and help you make a determination as to which is the right one for your particular situation.

To learn more, contact a doctor such as Michael A. Goldfarb MD FACS.


Share

About Me

Aging Gracefully and with Great Health

While it's true that aging and illness used to go in hand, today's medical advancements now mean we don't have to settle for that eventuality anymore. I'm already considering the aging process although I'm still middle aged because I intend to enjoy my later years with the best health possible. Living well and aging gracefully aren't just about maintaining your appearance, but also feeling as good as you can as you get older. I'm sharing what I discover in my personal quest with everyone here on this convenient website so we can all join together to cross into the golden years with our health intact.