Hernia Surgery
If you are experiencing ongoing discomfort or finding that a hernia is affecting your day-to-day activities, you may be wondering what your next steps should be. In such cases, surgical repair is often recommended to prevent symptoms from worsening. Our hernia specialists provide timely assessments and personalised treatment options tailored to your needs. Early evaluation not only helps ease discomfort sooner but also supports a safer and smoother recovery.
What is a Hernia?
A hernia is a condition in which an internal organ in the abdomen protrudes through a weakness in the abdominal wall muscle in the groin.
It is caused by a combination of muscle weakness and excessive pressure.
Improper lifting of heavy loads, chronic constipation, persistent coughing or sneezing, obesity, smoking and overall poor nutrition can all contribute to hernias. Age, pregnancy, injuries and surgery may result in muscle weakness, which, in turn, leads to hernias.
Types of Hernias
There are several types of hernias, the most common of which are:
Inguinal Hernia
Accounting for around 70% of all hernias, inguinal hernias occur when the intestine or
bladder protrudes through the lower abdominal wall or the inguinal canal in the groin, which
houses the spermatic cord that supports the testicles (men) and the ligament that keeps the
uterus in place (women). This type is more common in men than in women.
Typical symptoms include a groin bulge, discomfort that worsens with standing or lifting,
and a sense of heaviness or pressure. Some patients may also feel pain radiating toward the
lower abdomen or scrotum.
Femoral Hernia
Similar to inguinal hernias, femoral hernias occur in the groin, but these more commonly
affect women, especially those who are pregnant or obese. This type of hernia happens when
the intestine pushes out of the lower abdominal wall and into the femoral canal in the upper
thigh.
Common signs and symptoms include a small bulge near the upper thigh, discomfort or pressure
that worsens with standing or straining, and pain that may radiate to the groin.
Umbilical Hernia
An umbilical hernia develops when tissue pushes through the abdominal wall near the navel. While common in infants, it can also affect adults. Signs and symptoms include a soft bulge around the belly button, discomfort during coughing or straining, and localised pressure.
Incisional Hernia
An incisional hernia occurs when the intestine protrudes out of the abdominal wall via a previous incision or weakened tissues and muscles in an old surgical site. Patients may notice a bulge at or near the old incision, discomfort or aching that increases with standing, lifting, coughing and a sense of pressure in the affected area.
Hiatal Hernia
A hiatal hernia arises when part of the stomach moves upward through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. Unlike other hernias, it usually causes internal symptoms such as heartburn, acid reflux or difficulty swallowing rather than an external bulge. It is more common in older adults and may worsen with excess weight or increased abdominal pressure. Severe or persistent symptoms may require surgical treatment.
What Are the Common Signs and Symptoms of a Hernia?
Symptoms can vary depending on the type and location of the hernia, but common signs and symptoms include:
A Visible Bulge or Lump
A bulge in the abdomen or the groin area that may become more obvious when standing, coughing or straining and may disappear when lying down.
Discomfort or Pain
Many hernias cause mild to severe pain at the site, especially during physical activity, lifting or bending.
Feeling of Heaviness or Pressure
Some patients feel a sense of pressure or heaviness in the affected area.
Tenderness or Redness
The skin over the hernia may feel tender, warm or appear red if inflammation or complications arise.
If you experience any of these signs and symptoms, a consultation with a hernia specialist can help confirm the diagnosis and assess the most appropriate next steps. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Hernia Repair Surgery (Herniorrhaphy)
As hernias tend to enlarge gradually over time, hernia repair should be considered once
diagnosed as there is an increasing risk that bowel or fatty tissue may become trapped,
potentially cutting off blood supply and leading to serious complications.
Every hernia repair is different and tailored to individual. Some procedures may be
performed as outpatient surgery without an overnight stay, while more complex cases may
require a longer hospital admission. Surgery may be carried out using an open or minimally
invasive (keyhole) approach, depending on the size, location, and complexity of the hernia.
Repair surgeries for smaller hernias are usually more straightforward. The procedure
involves returning the protruding tissue to its proper position and closing the weakened
opening. This may be done with sutures alone, but many repairs now use surgical mesh to
reinforce the abdominal wall. The mesh provides additional support as the tissue heals and
significantly reduces the risk of recurrence. Larger hernias often require more complex
repair and a longer recovery, which is why early treatment is generally encouraged.
What Hernia Surgery Aims to Achieve
Hernia surgery is recommended when symptoms persist or when there is a risk of complications, with the aim of improving comfort and daily function.
Relief from Pain and Discomfort
– Repairing the hernia relieves pressure on surrounding tissues, to ease persistent pain and improve mobility.Prevention of Serious Complications
– Surgery addresses the risk of the hernia becoming trapped or strangulated, which can be life-threatening if untreated.Improved Daily Function
– Many patients regain the ability to perform work, exercise and routine activities with fewer limitations.Restoration of Strength and Stability
– Repairing the weakened abdominal wall helps restore core support and reduces the likelihood of further bulging.Long-Term Results
– Modern surgical techniques offer durable repairs and lower recurrence rates.
What Are the Types of Hernia Surgery?
Hernia repair can be performed using different surgical approaches, each offering unique advantages depending on the hernia’s size, location, and complexity.
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Open (Traditional) Hernia Repair Surgery
In this technique, the surgeon makes a single, larger incision (typically 5–10 cm) directly over the hernia site. The protruding tissue is returned to its proper position, and the weakened muscle area is reinforced, often with mesh. -
Laparoscopic Hernia Repair Surgery
Unlike the open technique, several small incisions are used to insert a laparoscope and specialised surgical instruments. The surgeon repairs the hernia while viewing the area on a monitor. This minimally invasive method generally supports quicker recovery and less postoperative discomfort. -
Robotic Hernia Repair Surgery
Similar to laparoscopic surgery, but the surgeon operates from a console, directing robotic arms that hold the surgical instruments. This allows delicate movements in confined spaces, which can be especially useful for complex or recurrent hernias.
How Should I Prepare for This Procedure?
Preparation typically includes:
- Completing a medical evaluation and reviewing medications that may affect anaesthesia
- Pausing certain medicines, such as blood thinners, if advised by your doctor
- Following fasting instructions before the procedure
- Reducing smoking and alcohol use to support healing and reduce surgical risks
- Arranging transport and short-term help at home
- Planning for rest and activity restrictions after surgery
What Are the Risks of Hernia Surgery?
As with most surgical procedures, hernia repair comes with possible risks. These include:
- Post-operative pain and swelling
- Mesh pain and infection
- Bleeding or infection at the surgical site
- Rare, recurrence of the hernia
Post-Surgical Care Following Hernia Repair
It is normal to experience pain and swelling around the surgical site during the first few days
after surgery. These symptoms are usually manageable with rest and prescribed medication, and they
typically improve within a week.
Light activities, including gentle exercise and sexual activity, may be resumed after one to two
weeks. Many patients can return to work after around two weeks, depending on their role. Strenuous
exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least four to six weeks to allow proper healing.