exercise after gaint hernia repair

Two years ago I perforated a bowel due to undiagnosed diverticulits.  I had a colostomy which was reversed 6 months later.  Next came an incisional and stoma site hernia which was repaired (gortex mesh) 9 months ago.  I am 43 years old and a former Physical Fitness Professional in the Canadian Forces.  I would like to resume exercising which in the past mostly included weight training.  Can I resume weight training?  If so, how do I strengthen my core muscles?  I really want to get rid of the ponch belly that has taken over my adominal (abdominal) muscles.  I know I will never be the same, but how close can I get to having a healthy looking body again? (When I got sick I was 210lbs and now I am 235lbs so I do have pounds that I have to lose)

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

Avoid all forms of exercises which increase the abdominal pressure, even avoid chronic cough and respiratory infections. Do not lift weights and avoid lifting of heavy objects.

You have to do proper diet control and come into shape by cardio exercises. Jogging, running, swimming can be pursued and only after competition of a year and after a routine examination from your surgeon you can consider some amount of pressure to the abdominal musculature.

Take care!