I'm having surgery for a hiatal hernia next wk. what should i expect after the operation?

Bloating: If you are having this done laparoscopically or robotically the incisional pain will improve quickly. Most patients having repair of a large hiatal hernia develop some bloating of their stomachs and some will have difficulty swallowing particularly with solids for several weeks. If you are having a fundoplication this is particularly likely. Once your surgeon allows solids chew well.