These types of health treatments are ambiguous at best, you should consult a physician before doing anything to "official" icy-hot pads are great, and fluids do as much as-the stereotype.
You should expect some pain, soreness and discomfort after surgery. While I didn't have a "double hernia" repair; I did have a hernia repair. I was up and walking about shortly after surgery and didn't require heavy duty pain medication. You will be back to yourself in no time.
By this type of hernia surgery may expect some pain and discomfort after sergery and easy to up and walk within short day. After sergery it is not require to take heavy duty pain medication also possible to come normal life as early.
This is going to be a very invasive surgery. You will most likely be under anesthesia while they perform the operation. You will probably spend a day or two in post operation depending on the condition.