What a hernia is
A hernia is a weakness or gap in the abdominal wall through which fat or bowel can push, producing a bulge. Hernias often ache or feel uncomfortable, especially when standing, lifting or coughing, and they do not heal on their own. They tend to enlarge slowly with time. Occasionally bowel becomes trapped in a hernia, which is painful and needs urgent treatment, so a hernia that suddenly becomes painful, hard or cannot be pushed back should be seen promptly.
Hernias we repair
- Inguinal (groin) hernia, the most common type, repaired by keyhole or open surgery
- Femoral hernia
- Umbilical and paraumbilical hernia, repaired with sutures or mesh depending on size
- Incisional hernia at the site of previous surgery
- Recurrent hernia after previous repair
- Complex abdominal wall reconstruction, including transversus abdominis release (TAR), for large or difficult hernias
Keyhole or open repair
Both surgeons perform laparoscopic (keyhole) and open hernia repair. Keyhole repair places mesh behind the abdominal wall through small incisions, which suits many groin hernias, hernias on both sides and recurrent hernias. Open repair through a single incision remains an excellent choice for other patients. The right technique depends on the type and size of the hernia, your previous surgery and your general health, and your surgeon will explain the recommendation at your consultation.
Complex and recurrent hernias are a particular focus. Abdominal wall reconstruction techniques such as TAR allow large incisional hernias to be repaired while restoring the function of the abdominal wall.
Recovery after hernia surgery
Many groin and umbilical hernia repairs are day-case or one-night procedures. Larger incisional repairs and abdominal wall reconstruction involve a longer stay. Most people are walking on the day of surgery and back to light activities within days. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise are restricted for a period while the repair strengthens, and your surgeon will give you a clear timeline for driving, work and exercise.
Costs and insurance
Private hernia surgery is performed at St George's Hospital and Southern Cross Hospital. After your consultation the rooms will provide a written estimate of surgical, anaesthetic and hospital costs for your insurer or for prior approval.
Where to start
Send a request through this page or call the rooms on 03 375 4949. No GP referral is required, although one is welcome.
