By Dr Thomas Hanna MBChB, FRCS, MSc, PGCE, PhD and Dr Peter Swan MBChB, FRACS
Compass Surgical | MacMurray Centre, Auckland
This is Article 6 of 8 in our guide to hernias and hernia surgery.
By the time patients reach surgery, they have usually spent time considering their options, discussing the risks and benefits, and deciding that repair is the right choice.
In Article 5 of this series, What Are the Risks of Hernia Surgery?, we discussed the recognised risks and complications of hernia repair and how surgeons help patients make informed decisions.
The next question is often:
“What actually happens on the day?”
For many people, this is the part of the process that causes the most anxiety.
The good news is that hernia repair is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures, and most patients find the experience far more straightforward than they expected.
At Compass Surgical, our goal is to make the journey as safe, comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Most Compass Surgical hernia procedures are performed as day-stay operations, meaning patients return home the same day.
When you arrive, you’ll be welcomed by the nursing team who will:
Many patients tell us that the anticipation beforehand is actually the most stressful part of the day.
Before surgery, your surgeon will meet with you again.
This final discussion provides an opportunity to:
Although this is routine, it is an important final safety check and ensures everyone is clear about the plan before proceeding.
If your operation is being performed under general anaesthetic, you will also meet your anaesthetist before surgery.
They will discuss:
Modern anaesthesia is extremely safe, and this conversation provides another opportunity to ask questions and raise any concerns. Further patient information about hernia surgery and anaesthesia is available through the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) and Healthify NZ.
The exact details depend on the type of hernia and the repair being performed.
As discussed in our previous article, hernia repair may be performed using an open or laparoscopic (keyhole) approach, and selected patients may be suitable for surgery under local anaesthetic.
The operation itself usually takes between 30 minutes and two hours depending on the complexity of the repair.
While surgery may feel like the major event from a patient’s perspective, most of your day is actually spent preparing for surgery and recovering afterwards.
Following the operation, you will spend a short period in the recovery area while the effects of the anaesthetic wear off.
During this time, the nursing team focuses on:
Most patients are encouraged to get up and walk on the day of surgery.
The majority of patients return home the same day.
Before discharge, we make sure that:
If you have had a general anaesthetic or sedation, you will need someone to drive you home.
Many patients are surprised by how quickly recovery begins.
Walking is encouraged from the day of surgery, and most people return to light daily activities within a short period of time.
Before leaving hospital, you will receive detailed instructions covering:
Our team remains available if questions arise during your recovery.
Compass Surgical was founded on a simple principle:
Do the right operation, for the right patient, at the right time.
That commitment extends beyond the operation itself.
We believe good surgical care includes preparation, communication, safety and ongoing support throughout recovery.
Our goal is not simply to perform an operation.
Our goal is to help patients navigate the entire surgical journey with confidence.
If you would like to learn more about hernia surgery or discuss whether repair may be appropriate for you, visit the Compass Surgical Contact page and arrange a consultation with one of our surgeons.
One of the most common questions after surgery is:
“How long will recovery take?”
The answer depends on the type of hernia, the operation performed and the individual patient.
In Article 7 of 8, Recovery After Hernia Surgery, we’ll discuss returning to work, driving, exercise, sport and normal daily activities after hernia repair.
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Will I be asleep during surgery?
Most hernia repairs are performed under general anaesthetic, although some patients are suitable for surgery under local anaesthetic.
How long will I be in hospital?
Most patients return home on the same day as surgery.
Will I be in pain afterwards?
Some discomfort is expected, but pain is usually well controlled with simple pain relief and improves steadily over the first few days.
When can I eat and drink?
Most patients are able to eat and drink shortly after surgery.
Can I go home alone?
No. If you have had a general anaesthetic or sedation, you will need somebody to drive you home and stay with you initially.
Article 1 of 8 – What Is a Hernia?
Article 2 of 8 – When Do I Need Hernia Surgery?
Article 3 of 8 – What Types of Hernia Repair Are Available?
Article 4 of 8 – Is Hernia Mesh Safe?
Article 5 of 8 – What Are the Risks of Hernia Surgery?
Article 7 of 8 – Recovery After Hernia Surgery
Article 8 of 8 – Long-Term Results After Hernia Surgery
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Dr Thomas Hanna MBChB, FRCS, MSc, PGCE, PhD
Dr Thomas Hanna is a general and transplant surgeon practising in Auckland. He trained in the United Kingdom before moving to New Zealand in 2019. He has specialist interests in hernia repair, gallbladder surgery, minimally invasive surgery and complex abdominal surgery. Tom is a founding partner of Compass Surgical and is committed to patient-centred surgical care, clear communication and surgery performed with integrity.
Dr Peter Swan MBChB, FRACS
Dr Peter Swan is a general surgeon practising in Auckland with expertise in hernia repair, gallbladder surgery and general surgical conditions including lumps and bumps. He is a founding partner of Compass Surgical. Peter’s practice focuses on practical, evidence-based advice, careful patient selection and personalised treatment.
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Compass Surgical
Doing what’s right, always.
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