Ask a PT Response: "Hernia repair surgery can vary depending on the patient and surgeon. On average it is recommended that the patient rest anywhere from 6-12 weeks after this surgery. Given that you had the more involved invasive surgery, it would probably be a good idea for you to wait longer before beginning a more involved work out. As far as rehab, patients can perform walking and lift light weights with the UE. Lifting heavier weights, performing abdominal strengthening exercises and other more involved exercises are not performed until the patient is fully healed. You should be following up with your surgeon, so it may be a good idea to ask him what he or she thinks your timeline will be in regards to returning to your prior level of function."