Hernia Surgery

Hernia Surgery

What are Hernias?

A hernia is a condition where an organ, or a part of an organ, passes through a gap it isn’t supposed to. You might develop a hernia in a range of sites in the abdomen. Depending on the site and what is passing through the hernia defect, your surgeon will advise you on your options. The most common sites for hernias are in the groyne, near the navel (belly button) and through previous incisions or wounds. A hiatus hernia is a hernia through the diaphragm inside your abdomen. It is different in many ways and is discussed elsewhere on our website.

What is Hernia Surgery?

Hernia surgery aims to repair your hernia and get rid of the symptoms it is causing you. The primary goal of this surgery is to push the displaced organ or tissue back into its proper position and then strengthen the weakened or torn muscle or tissue to prevent the hernia from recurring. Depending on several factors, this may involve stitches or sometimes mesh to reinforce the repair.

Who is a Candidate for Hernia Surgery?

Not all hernias require surgery, and deciding to proceed with surgery depends on several factors. Here are some considerations for determining if you might be a candidate for hernia surgery:

Hernia Size and Type: The size and type of hernia play a crucial role. Some hernias, such as femoral hernias, should always be fixed when possible to prevent problems from developing later. Other hernias, like small umbilical hernias, don’t always need repair, especially when not causing symptoms.
Symptoms: Hernias often cause discomfort, pain, or other symptoms, such as a visible bulge. Surgery is usually recommended if these symptoms affect your quality of life. Our surgeons will discuss with you your circumstances to help you decide whether you’d like to have surgery or not.
Health Status: Your overall health is a significant factor. If someone has underlying health conditions that increase the risks of surgery, their surgeon may recommend either delaying or not undertaking surgery. The most common reasons your surgeon might delay your hernia surgery would be if you are smoking, planning on falling pregnant or if you are overweight. If your surgeon has suggested delaying surgery, it is so you can be healthier before surgery and, therefore, less likely to have a complication. We want your surgery to be as safe and effective as possible.
Age: Age is sometimes a consideration. In some cases, older adults with smaller hernias may choose to monitor the hernia rather than undergo surgery. However, your general fitness and health are much more important than your age.
Complications: Hernias that become incarcerated (trapped) or strangulated (blood flow to the herniated tissue is cut off) require emergency surgery. Our surgeons offer urgent and semi-urgent hernia repairs through public and private hospitals.

Benefits of Hernia Surgery

Hernia surgery is very effective with very low rates of complications. Hernia surgery can help with the following:

Relief from Symptoms: One of the primary benefits of hernia surgery is the relief from symptoms associated with the hernia. This includes reducing or eliminating pain, discomfort, and the visible bulge caused by the hernia.
Preventing Complications: Hernias can lead to serious complications, such as bowel strangulation, which is a medical emergency. Surgery can prevent these life-threatening complications by repairing the hernia and preventing bits of the bowel from getting trapped.
Improved Quality of Life: After successful hernia surgery, patients generally experience an improved quality of life. They can return to their normal activities, including work and exercise, without the limitations imposed by the hernia.
Minimally Invasive Options: The Hunter Weight Loss surgeons will always discuss how your hernia could be fixed. We generally perform most hernia repairs laparoscopically (keyhole) where appropriate to reduce discomfort and allow quicker recovery.

Preparation Before Hernia Surgery

Before undergoing hernia surgery, patients should:

Schedule a consultation with one of our surgeons to assess the hernia's size, type, and the most appropriate surgical approach.
Undergo a thorough medical evaluation, occasionally including blood work and imaging tests, to ensure you are in good health for surgery. If you’ve already had blood tests or scans, bring the results if possible.
Inform your healthcare provider about any medications or allergies. Some medications may need to be adjusted before surgery.
Follow the fasting instructions provided by your surgeon, anaesthetist or the hospital. Typically, patients are required to refrain from eating or drinking for a specified period before surgery. Following most hernia repairs, you can eat normally immediately afterwards.
Arrange for transportation to and from the hospital, someone to be around to give you a hand for a couple of days following your discharge.

Hernia Surgery Procedure

The steps of hernia surgery depend on the type of hernia and the specific operation. However, here is a general overview of what happens during hernia surgery:

Anaesthesia: You will receive anaesthesia to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. Depending on the surgery type, this may be local anaesthesia, regional anaesthesia, or general anaesthesia.
Incision: The surgeon makes the necessary incisions to access the hernia site.
Hernia Reduction: The protruding organ or tissue is gently pushed back into its proper position.
Repair: The weakened or torn muscle or tissue is repaired. This may involve sutures, mesh placement, or both.
Closure: The incisions are closed with sutures, and dressings are applied. Your sutures will be dissolvable underneath the skin, so you don’t need any stitches removed.

What to Expect After Hernia Surgery?

After hernia surgery, individuals can expect the following:

You will be monitored in the recovery room until you wake up from anaesthesia and your vital signs are stable.
A mild degree of discomfort is common after this type of surgery. Your surgeon will provide pain management strategies, which may include medication. Often, patients have little to no pain.
Early mobilisation is encouraged to aid your recovery. You will also be able to eat whatever you please.
Your surgeon will provide guidelines regarding physical activity and lifting restrictions during recovery.
The timeline for returning to work and normal activities varies depending on the type of surgery and individual recovery. You will be indicated this before surgery to plan work/activities.
You will be given instructions about wound care. Generally, you won't be required to do anything other than remove your dressings.
You will be booked a post-op appointment with your surgeon. Depending on your preference, this can be done in person, via telehealth or over the phone.

Hernia Surgery Outcomes

You can expect to experience significant relief from the symptoms that prompted surgery, such as pain or discomfort caused by the hernia. Whilst complications do occur, they are very uncommon.

Hernia Surgery Risks

While hernia surgery is extremely safe, it does carry some inherent risks, as with any surgical procedure. Common risks and complications can include: