What To Expect After Surgery. Most people who have open hernia repair surgery are able to go home the same day. Recovery time is about 3 weeks. You most likely can return to light activity after 3 weeks.Strenuous exercise should wait until after 6 weeks of recovery.Don't do anything that causes pain. You'll probably be able to drive again in about 2 weeks or when you have no pain in your groin. You can have sexual intercourse in about 3 weeks.welling over the incision is common after hernia surgery. It doesn't mean that the surgery was unsuccessful. To reduce swelling and pain, put ice or a cold pack on the area for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Do this every 1 to 2 hours.