Surgery is recommended for symptomatic ventral hernias or those that are enlarging.

Repair options

Mesh reinforcement is commonly used, particularly for larger defects, as it reduces the risk of recurrence.

Most ventral hernia repairs are performed as day-case procedures, depending on size and complexity.

Incisional hernias do not resolve without surgery. As they enlarge, repair becomes more complex. Early assessment allows:

Treatment is tailored to the individual and may include:

Mesh reinforcement is standard for most incisional hernias to provide long-term strength.

Smaller hernias may be treated as day case surgery, while larger or more complex repairs may require a short hospital stay.

Careful assessment allows:

This approach supports good outcomes and reduces the risk of recurrence.

Across all abdominal wall hernia repairs:

These precautions protect the repair and support healing.

You should seek assessment if you notice:

Early assessment allows planned treatment rather than urgent surgery.

Divarication of recti occurs when prolonged or repeated pressure stretches the abdominal wall.

Common contributing factors include:

The condition is common and can affect both men and women.

Symptoms vary and may include:

Importantly, divarication of recti does not usually cause pain from trapped bowel, unlike a hernia.

Divarication of recti is not dangerous and does not carry the same risks as a hernia, such as bowel strangulation or obstruction.

However, it can:

In some patients, divarication may coexist with a true hernia, which requires separate assessment.

Diagnosis is usually made by:

Imaging such as ultrasound or CT scan may be used if:

For most patients, treatment begins with non-surgical measures.

This includes:

Exercise-based therapy aims to improve function and control, even if the separation itself does not completely close.

Surgery is not routinely required for divarication of recti alone.

Surgical repair may be considered only in selected cases, for example:

Surgery for divarication is not performed to prevent medical complications, but rather to address functional or structural concerns in selected individuals.

When surgery is appropriate, it usually involves:

The approach (open or minimally invasive) depends on:

Surgical decisions are made carefully and conservatively.

Post-operative recovery varies depending on the procedure performed.

General principles include:

Detailed instructions are provided on an individual basis.

You may benefit from specialist review if:

A careful assessment allows accurate diagnosis and appropriate advice.

A hernia occurs when tissue from inside the abdomen pushes through a weakness in the abdominal wall. This usually appears as a lump that may become more noticeable when standing, coughing, or straining.

No. Hernias do not heal without surgery. Over time, they may stay the same or gradually increase in size.

Many hernias are not immediately dangerous. However, a small number can become trapped or painful and require urgent treatment. Early assessment allows planned, safer surgery rather than emergency treatment.

Surgery is the only definitive treatment.

Whether surgery is recommended immediately depends on:

● Symptoms

● Hernia size

● Impact on daily activities

● Risk of complications

This is discussed on an individual basis.

I assess and treat:

● Groin hernias (inguinal and femoral)

● Ventral hernias (including umbilical and epigastric)

● Incisional hernias

● Spigelian and other abdominal wall hernias

Most hernias can be repaired using either:

● Open surgery, or

● Laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery

Both approaches are well established.

The choice depends on:

● Hernia type and size

● Whether it is one-sided or both sides

● Previous surgery

● Individual anatomy and health

The most appropriate option is discussed clearly with you.

Mesh is commonly used in hernia surgery because it reduces the risk of the hernia coming back.

Its use depends on the type and size of the hernia and will always be discussed with you beforehand.

Yes.

Most groin and abdominal wall hernia repairs are performed as same-day surgery, allowing you to go home later the same day.

Larger or more complex incisional hernias may require a short hospital stay.

You should seek review if symptoms:

● Persist despite treatment

● Affect sleep or daily life

● Are associated with swallowing difficulty, weight loss or chest pain

Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort for a short period. Pain usually improves steadily and is well controlled with simple pain relief.

Recovery varies, but most patients:

● Walk on the day of surgery

● Resume light activities within days

● Return to desk-based work within 1–2 weeks

You should not drive for 2 weeks after hernia surgery and only resume driving when you feel comfortable performing an emergency stop.

To protect the repair:

● Avoid lifting more than 2 kg (about a full kettle) for 4 weeks

● Gentle walking is encouraged

● Heavier exercise and lifting are reintroduced gradually after this period

Hernia surgery is very common and generally safe. As with all surgery, risks include:

● Pain or bruising

● Infection

● Bleeding

● Recurrence of the hernia (uncommon)

These risks are discussed clearly during consultation.

Recurrence is uncommon, particularly when modern techniques and mesh are used, but no operation can guarantee a zero risk.

Some hernias remain stable for long periods. Others enlarge or become more uncomfortable. Delaying surgery may make repair more complex later. This is discussed openly so you can make an informed decision.

Not all lumps are hernias. Assessment helps distinguish between hernias and other causes such as muscle weakness, lipomas, or divarication of recti.

Accurate diagnosis, appropriate choice of surgical technique, and clear post-operative guidance all influence outcomes. Individual assessment allows surgery to be tailored safely to your specific condition.

Seek urgent assessment if:

● The hernia becomes suddenly painful

● The lump becomes hard or cannot be pushed back

● You develop severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or fever