[Tj37067]

I had a similar procedure and almost immediately after two months, I have been prescribed Gabapentin, which has definitely improved my neuropathic pain. It doesn’t do much to control the tugging/pulling sensation but it definitely works for the neuropathy. From what I understand, 300mg is a fair dose, and some patients for chronic pain go up to 2400 mg per day. And like you, I am going to make sure I have exhausted all alternatives before a mesh removal. I’ve also had some systemic symptoms: brain fog, chronic cough, fatigue, and worsening of my tension headache (which I have had for 4 years prior to surgery). However, I think I will continue waiting and watching for the near future. It seems prudent to get multiple opinions and an expert removal surgeon, I am planning on speaking to several. Surgical skill for mesh removal I reckon would have the greatest impact on the outcome.

[Tj37067]

GoodIntentions/Jnomesh — the information you have both provided is extremely helpful! I am so thankful! Jnomesh — yes, I am very skinny and I will monitor the situation closely. I am actually going to get a second opinion from a mesh removal surgeon recommended on this forum just to monitor my progress over time so I would have some answers sooner than later, and in the interim will definitely focus on rest!

[Tj37067]

I was able to get a copy of my post-operative report. My postoperative diagnosis was: Bilateral indirect inguinal hernia and umbilical hernia. A 3DMax mesh was placed bilaterally. Some notes, right side: “I was able to visualize the patient had a large lipoma of the cord which was reduced and the peritoneum was tracking to the cord. I took that back and was able to free it and pushed it all the way back and dissect. There was no direct defect and no femoral defect. I turned my attention to the left side, and in a similar way, mobilized all the way out to the anterior superior iliac spine, and again there was a smaller lipoma on the left and the peritoneum was tracking toward the cord. This was pulled back from the cord structures and teased back so that a mesh could lay there, and then dissection was carried out medially to the level of the pubic symphysis again. No direct defect as seen only indirect.” I am still having a decent amount of nerve pain into my groin, buttocks, and hamstrings (37 days post-surgery now), I get the feeling of something pushing down into my pubic area when I walk for a long time or run. I also have pain when I am sleeping on my side. The best position for me is standing up. Also, I have a small dent above my penis that looks like another belly button hole, which wasn’t there prior to my surgery. I can post a picture if needed. I have a follow-up with my surgeon on Wednesday to discuss if my recovery timeline is normal. I am planning on getting a second opinion as well. Any suggestions from the forum?