Hi Tiger,
Welcome to Healing Well, and our
Wrapped Club!
Many here have had the surgery, and you'll get lots of support and encouragement from others here.
You will want to avoid lifting for at least 6 weeks. Check with your surgeon regarding how much you can lift. I believe it's nothing over 5 pounds. You won't want to compromise your hernia repair, as that is what keeps your wrap intact.
I don't know how much your surgeon had told you, but you need to keep in mind that your wrap and stomach are very swollen. They will become increasingly swollen over the first two weeks, to peak at 14 days. Don't be surprised if your swallowing gets worse before it gets better. This is to be expected.
Don't drink ice water, as it can cause spasms and discomfort. Every surgeon has a different eating protocol, but mine had me eating anything I wanted to that could be chewed to a liquid. No steak or bread (toasted well, bread is quite chewable) for 6-8 weeks. You should take small bites, and chew, chew, chew. Eat slowly and carefully. Keep amounts low. Small meals more often. Sometimes a liquid helps get things down if you're having difficulty. I found tea to be very helpful.
If you can surrender to your recovery and follow it where it takes you, you will find it much easier.
Good luck!
Denise