Hernia Repair (Open & Laparoscopic)

What is a hernia repair?

A hernia is a gap in the abdominal wall that lets tissue bulge through — most commonly in the groin (inguinal), at the navel (umbilical) or through a previous surgical scar (incisional). Repair closes the gap, usually reinforced with a mesh that spreads the load across the weakened area. The background — and why a hernia that starts to hurt should not wait — is on the general surgery page.

Laparoscopic or open repair

Both are sound operations, and the choice is genuinely individual. Laparoscopic (keyhole) repair places the mesh behind the abdominal wall through three small incisions under general anaesthesia — typically less early pain and a quicker return to work, and a natural choice for hernias on both sides or a recurrence after previous open repair. Open repair through an incision over the hernia can be done under regional or even local anaesthesia, which suits patients who should avoid a general anaesthetic, larger hernias, and some recurrent patterns. Umbilical and small incisional hernias are often repaired open; large incisional hernias may need a laparoscopic or combined approach.

What the procedure involves

• Usually day surgery — home the same evening
• General, regional or local anaesthesia depending on the approach
• Most patients return to desk work within days and to heavier lifting progressively over a few weeks, guided by comfort

What to expect afterwards

Bruising and swelling around the repair — and into the scrotum after groin repair — are common and settle. Recognised risks include seroma (a fluid collection that usually resolves), wound infection, recurrence of the hernia, and a small proportion of patients with longer-lasting groin discomfort; mesh techniques and careful nerve handling exist precisely to keep those numbers low, and I discuss them with you honestly rather than in fine print.

Is it right for me?

A bulge that aches, is growing, or ever becomes stuck deserves assessment — repair is far simpler electively than as an emergency. At consultation the hernia is examined (and scanned where the diagnosis is unclear), and I go through which repair fits your hernia, your work and your anaesthetic fitness.