Good luck with your surgery Fancylady. I've seen quite a few of the various hernia repairs (back when I was working) done laprascopically and everyone said that the worst part of it was the "gas" during recovery. I spent some time in Same Day surgery, and I can't tell you how many folks were embarassed to pass gas. Just let it all out, 'k?
Just make sure to take it easy during this recovery period, so that when the time comes for your hernia repair you are well rested and up to the surgery. Take care.
Theresa