Yes – bruising after hernia surgery is normal, though we understand it can be alarming. It may look frightful, with areas turning black and blue, but it’s usually part of the natural healing process.
Our goal is to give you peace of mind during recovery. We’re here to help you understand what’s happening and how you can reduce pain, swelling, and bruising effectively.
One of the most effective ways to reduce bruising and swelling is by wearing a hernia support garment.
Our hernia supports have been tested and recommended by past patients. You can explore these products in our Hernia Recovery Programme Shop.
Not ready to buy? That’s okay — the guidance in our store will still help you choose a safe, effective product wherever you shop.
Hernia supports work by applying gentle, targeted compression over the surgical site. As a results, this helps:
Early movement supported by the garment improves outcomes – and your comfort.
We recommend you wear a support garment continuously during the first 48 hours, all the time you need pain relief medication, and after that, for up to 6 weeks after surgery.*
*Please note that these pants are styled to be tight and supportive. If you initially find this too much in the first days after surgery and stop wearing them, please try them again once getting back to heavier activity as they will help you do this safely and will be more comfortable.
For best results, consider pairing your support with our Hernia Rehabilitation Exercises, designed to improve circulation and healing and re-strengthen the operation site.
Even if you don’t use our exercises, hernia supports will help you get back to gentle exercise.
Bruising can grow over several days and cause swelling. Depending on the type of hernia and surgical approach, the operation can lead to penile bruising, bruising of the testicles and bruising in your flanks. For example, bruising after inguinal hernia surgery might appear as genital bruising such as bruised testicles, bruised scrotum or bruising on the penile shaft. However, bruising after umbilical hernia surgery might mean bruising higher up on the abdomen.
Bruising is complicated – factors that influence the extent of bruising include:
Read about our unique Local Anaesthetic and Sedation approach to hernia surgery
Depending on the factors above, bruising can last up to a few weeks. Wearing your hernia support can help this. The length of time you will need pain relief medication can be related to the amount of bruising. The more proactive you are about reducing bruising and getting back to activity, the better you’ll feel – and faster.
The key point is: Even large bruises usually resolve on their own. Some simple pain relief and waiting up to a few weeks will fix it. But with the right support, recovery can be quicker and more comfortable.
We’re your partner in recovery – our mission is to bring peace of mind and outstanding care to people in need of, or recovering from hernia surgery.
Whether you’re looking for expert advice, an effective support garment/rehabilitation exercises or simply reassurance, we’re here to help.
Find out more about our private practice and Consultant Surgeon
Nuffield health Wessex – SO53 2DZ
Spire Southampton Hospital – SO16 6UY
