6 Ways to Prevent a Hernia from Recurring

Experiencing a hernia once is difficult enough, but having it come back can be even more frustrating. While modern hernia surgery techniques are highly effective, recurrence can still happen if the abdominal wall is placed under too much strain or if recovery care is overlooked.

The good news: with the right habits and precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk of another hernia. Beyond following your doctor’s postoperative instructions, here are six practical ways to protect your repair and support long-term recovery.

Excess body weight places unnecessary strain on the abdominal muscles and the site of surgery. This pressure can weaken the repaired tissue over time and increase the risk of a recurrent hernia.

Your doctor can help you develop a sustainable weight management plan that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise. Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains, while limiting processed foods high in sugar and fat. If you are overweight, gradual weight loss under medical supervision is recommended.

Lifting heavy objects can contribute to hernia recurrence by placing sudden, excessive strain on the abdominal muscles. Avoid carrying or lifting anything heavy until the doctor confirms that the repair is strong enough.

If lifting is unavoidable, use proper techniques, such as bending at the knees and keeping the object close to your body. For patients with physically demanding jobs, discuss with your doctor when and how to safely return to such activities.

Strong core muscles provide better support for the abdominal wall and help reduce strain on the surgical repair site. However, exercise should be approached gradually and only after your surgeon has cleared you to begin.

Start with gentle core exercises such as pelvic tilts, leg raises or modified planks to build muscle tone without overloading the repaired area. As your recovery progresses, you can move on to slightly more challenging movements like bridges, wall sits or gentle Pilates routines.

Smoking not only harms overall health but also significantly increases the risk of hernia recurrence. The chemicals in tobacco smoke impair blood flow and reduce the amount of oxygen delivered to the healing tissue. This also weakens the connective tissues, including those in the abdominal wall, making it possible for hernias to return.

Quitting smoking helps protect your surgical repair and supports lasting results after hernia surgery. Speak with your doctor about smoking-cessation programmes or support resources to help you quit for good.

Persistent coughing, whether from respiratory conditions, allergies or asthma, can cause repeated pressure spikes inside the abdomen. Over time, this strain may weaken the surgical repair site and raise the risk of recurrence.

If you experience ongoing cough symptoms, consult your doctor to identify and manage the underlying cause. Take prescribed medications as directed, and try to avoid triggers that could worsen your symptoms. Keeping your lungs healthy also helps protect the strength of your abdominal wall.

Chronic constipation can strain the abdominal muscles during bowel movements and weaken the surgical site, increasing the chances of hernia recurrence.

To manage constipation effectively, consume a high-fibre diet with adequate fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and stay well-hydrated. Regular physical activity can also help promote regular bowel movements. If constipation persists, your doctor may recommend stool softeners or other treatments to relieve straining and protect the repair site.

Preventing a hernia from recurring takes both medical guidance and long-term commitment to healthy habits. By following your doctor’s advice and making practical lifestyle adjustments, you can support healing, strengthen your abdominal wall and lower the risk of future complications.

For expert care and guidance on hernia prevention, book an appointment at our colorectal clinic in Singapore. We provide personalised surgical solutions and aftercare recommendations tailored to your specific situation and recovery needs.