Risk Factors You Can Improve
SMOKING
Cigarette smoking and nicotine use in any form will reduce your ability to heal, and increases your risk of complications such as infections, wound separation, heart attacks, pneumonia and stroke. You should stop smoking at least 4 weeks before surgery.
WEIGHT
Obesity increases complications. We measure obesity by the BMI (body mass index). A BMI of 30kg/m2 or less is ideal for hernia surgery. A BMI over 35kg/m2 is associated with more complications. If obesity makes surgery too risky to proceed, we will ask you to work with your medical doctor or dietitian to lose weight. In some circumstances, we can offer weight loss surgery before hernia surgery.
DIABETES
Poorly controlled diabetes is a major reason patients have complications with surgery. If your HgA1C is above 7.5%, surgery should be postponed.
NUTRITION
Eating a healthy balanced diet is good for your overall health, but it also helps your body heal faster after surgery. Increase fresh fruits and vegetables, and reduce processed foods and sugary drinks.
OVERALL HEALTH
Major hernia repair surgery is like running a marathon. The success of surgery frequently depends on your physical and mental condition going into surgery. Regular exercise and learning stress-reduction techniques before surgery will reduce your risks of complications.