Types of Hernias We Treat
Our Specialized Hernia Clinic can manage all types of abdominal wall hernias. Common hernias we treat include:
- Inguinal Hernia: A hernia in the groin area. It occurs when tissue (often part of the intestine) protrudes through a weak spot in the lower abdominal wall. This is the most common type of hernia (especially in men) and appears as a bulge in the groin or scrotum, which can cause pain or a burning sensation.
- Femoral Hernia: A bulge in the upper thigh, just below the groin. Femoral hernias are less common and occur more often in women, as tissue pushes through a weak spot near the femoral canal.
- Umbilical Hernia: A hernia at or near the belly button. Part of the intestine or fat pushes through the abdominal wall, causing a swelling at the navel. Umbilical hernias are often noticed in infants (usually closing on their own in childhood), but they also affect adults – especially after pregnancy or in those who are overweight.
- Epigastric Hernia: A small bulge in the upper-middle abdomen (between the breastbone and the belly button). An epigastric hernia forms when fat or tissue pokes through the midline abdominal muscles. It can cause a tender bump and discomfort in the upper abdomen.
- Incisional Hernia: A hernia that develops at the site of a previous abdominal surgery. The abdominal wall is weaker at the old incision, allowing tissue or intestines to push through and create a bulge under the scar, even years after the operation.
- Ventral Hernia: A general term for a hernia that occurs through the front (ventral) abdominal wall. This includes primary hernias like epigastric or umbilical, as well as incisional hernias. A ventral hernia can occur at any location on the abdominal wall where there is a muscle weakness.
Hernia Treatment: Open vs. Laparoscopic Surgery
We offer both traditional open surgery and minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery to repair hernias. Our surgeon will recommend the most suitable option based on your hernia’s characteristics and your overall health.
Open Hernia Repair (Day Surgery)
Open hernia repair involves making an incision over the hernia, pushing the bulging tissue back into place, and repairing the muscle defect with stitches and usually a mesh patch for reinforcement. Open surgery is often performed under local anesthesia with sedation (or general anesthesia in some cases). Many open hernia repairs at our center are outpatient procedures – you have the surgery and, after a few hours of monitored recovery, you can go home the same day.
Laparoscopic Hernia Repair (Minimally Invasive)
Laparoscopic hernia repair is done under general anesthesia using several small keyhole incisions. A tiny camera (laparoscope) and special instruments are used to repair the hernia from inside the abdomen, with a mesh placed to strengthen the area. This technique typically leads to less pain, smaller scars, and a faster recovery. Because laparoscopic surgery requires advanced equipment, we perform these repairs at a partner hospital, with our specialist surgeon leading your operation. Most laparoscopic surgery patients go home after an overnight observation.
Recovery and Follow-Up Care
After your hernia surgery, we support you through a smooth recovery. In most cases, you will be up and walking on the same day. If you have an open repair, you’ll likely go home within a few hours. For laparoscopic surgery, you may stay one night for observation and pain control. We will give you clear instructions on caring for your incision, managing pain, and gradually returning to activities. Many patients resume light daily tasks within a few days to a week. To protect your repair, avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for about 4–6 weeks. We’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your healing and answer any questions. By following our guidance, you can recover quickly and with a low risk of recurrence.