Hernias are a common condition that can cause pain, discomfort, or visible bulging, especially during physical activity. While some hernias can be managed with lifestyle adjustments, many require surgical repair to prevent complications or recurrence.
“Hernias can have a big impact on daily life,” says Dr. Stephen Chagares, general surgeon with Premier Surgical Network. “Fortunately, there are highly effective repair options that can get patients back to feeling like themselves again.”
Surgical intervention, ranging from minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures to open hernia repair, combined with lifestyle changes, is often the most reliable solution to repair the weakened tissue and prevent recurrence.
Understanding Hernias
“Hernias result from a combination of pressure and weakness in the muscle or fascia,” Dr. Chagares shares. Factors such as heavy lifting, chronic coughing, obesity, pregnancy, or a genetic predisposition can result in pressure that pushes an organ or tissue through a weak spot. Over time, activities or conditions that strain the abdominal or groin area can increase the likelihood of a hernia pushing completely through.
The most common hernia types include:
- Inguinal Hernias: Occurring when part of the intestine or abdominal tissue protrudes through the inguinal canal in the groin. They are the most common type, especially in men.
- Femoral Hernias: Less common, these occur just below the groin in the upper thigh and are more frequent in women, particularly those who are pregnant or obese.
- Umbilical Hernias: Near the belly button, when part of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through a weak abdominal wall. This is most common in infants but can also affect adults, especially those who are overweight or have multiple pregnancies.
- Hiatal Hernias: When part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. Often associated with symptoms like acid reflux and heartburn, and is more common in people over 50.
- Epigastric Hernias: Occur in the upper abdomen when fat pushes through the abdominal wall.
- Spigelian Hernias: Develop along the side of the abdominal muscles, often below the belly button, and are harder to detect early.
As Dr. Chagares warns, “If left untreated, hernias can lead to complications like strangulation, where the blood supply to the affected tissue is cut off, potentially creating a medical emergency.”
How Do You Repair a Hernia Non-Surgically?
For more minor or less severe hernias, non-surgical treatment options can help manage symptoms. These options include:
- Dietary Adjustments: For hiatal hernias, avoiding large meals, reducing acidic or spicy foods, and eating smaller, more frequent meals can help alleviate symptoms like acid reflux.
- Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding heavy lifting, and practicing proper posture can reduce strain on the affected area.
- Medications: Over-the-counter antacids or proton pump inhibitors can reduce acid reflux associated with hiatal hernias.
- Supportive Devices: Wearing a hernia belt or truss can provide temporary relief by keeping the hernia in place.
While non-surgical approaches can relieve symptoms in select cases, particularly for hiatal hernias, most abdominal wall hernias cannot be fully corrected without surgery.
Hernia Repair Surgery: Surgical Treatment Options
For more advanced hernias or those unresponsive to non-surgical methods, surgical hernia procedures are often necessary. The most common surgical options include:
Open Hernia Repair
Also known as herniorrhaphy, this involves making an incision over the hernia site to push the protruding tissue back into place. The weakened area is then reinforced with stitches and sometimes mesh. Open repair is often chosen for smaller hernias or those in complex locations.
Recovery from an open hernia repair typically takes 4-6 weeks, during which heavy lifting and strenuous activity should be avoided. Potential risks include infection, bleeding, and hernia recurrence.
Laparoscopic/Robotic Surgery
This minimally invasive approach involves making small incisions and using a camera (laparoscope) to guide the repair. The hernia is repaired and usually reinforced with mesh, similar to open surgery. Laparoscopic/robotic surgery is often preferred for larger or multiple hernias.
Patients generally return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks, though complete healing may take longer. Risks include injury to surrounding organs and recurrence, but these are less common with experienced surgeons.
What to Expect During Hernia Surgery Recovery
Recovering from hernia surgery is a critical part of achieving long-term success. Most patients can resume light activity within a few days, but a full return to work, exercise, and heavy lifting typically takes several weeks, depending on the repair performed and the individual’s overall health.
To support proper healing and avoid complications, patients are advised to:
- Avoid lifting anything over 10 pounds for at least 4–6 weeks
- Follow post-operative instructions closely, including incision care and activity modifications
- Attend all follow-up appointments to ensure the hernia repair is healing correctly
By adhering to the recommended recovery plan, patients can minimize their risk of recurrence and confidently return to normal routines.
Choosing the Right Treatment for Your Hernia
Whether you are managing symptoms of a small hernia with non-surgical methods or considering surgical intervention for a more advanced case, effective solutions are available.
“Sometimes, non-surgical treatments, such as lifestyle changes and medications, can relieve hiatal hernias. For more complex cases, surgery offers outcomes patients can rely on,” assures Dr. Chagares.
Our team of hernia specialists at Premier Surgical Network is dedicated to providing personalized care and expert guidance. Contact us today if you or someone you know suspects they may have a hernia.
