Private Hernia Surgeon in Warwickshire

Patient guide: hernias, repair options, and recovery

This page provides practical information to help you prepare for consultation and understand what to expect before and after hernia repair. It is general guidance and does not replace individual medical advice.

What is a hernia?

A hernia occurs when tissue (often fatty tissue or bowel) pushes through a weakness in the abdominal wall. It may present as a lump or bulge that is more noticeable on standing, coughing, or straining. Common types include groin (inguinal), umbilical (at the belly button), and ventral/incisional (through a previous scar or weakness in the abdominal wall).

Common symptoms

• A bulge or lump that comes and goes
• Dragging, aching or discomfort—often worse with activity
• Discomfort when lifting, coughing or standing for long periods
• Occasionally, pain without a clear bulge (especially early hernias)

When to seek urgent help

Seek urgent medical assessment if you have any of the following:

• Sudden severe pain at the hernia site
• Vomiting, fever, or feeling unwell
• Redness or tenderness over the lump
• A lump that cannot be reduced (pushed back in) when lying down

These features can suggest incarceration or strangulation, which may require urgent treatment.

How hernias are assessed

Assessment usually involves a careful history and examination. If helpful, an ultrasound or CT scan may be arranged—particularly for small, recurrent, or complex hernias. The key decision is whether surgery is appropriate, and if so, which technique best suits the individual.

Treatment options

Open vs laparoscopic vs robotic

There is no single “best” approach for everyone. The recommendation depends on the type and size of hernia, previous surgery, overall health, and your priorities for recovery.

Preparing for surgery (pre‑operative advice)

• Smoking: stopping reduces wound complications and improves healing.
• Weight optimisation: can reduce recurrence risk for abdominal wall hernias.
• Medication review: tell your team about blood thinners (e.g., warfarin/DOACs), diabetes medication, and supplements.
• Fitness: gentle walking and conditioning before surgery can help recovery.
• Plan support: arrange help at home for the first few days if needed.

On the day of surgery

Most hernia repairs are performed as day‑case surgery. You’ll usually have a pre‑assessment, meet your anaesthetist, and confirm the plan. After surgery you will be observed, mobilised, and given pain relief guidance before discharge.

Recovery and aftercare (post‑operative advice)

Activity: work, driving, exercise

• Driving: only when you can do an emergency stop comfortably and are not taking sedating pain medication.
• Work: depends on your role. Desk-based work may be sooner than heavy manual work.
• Exercise: begin with walking. Progress gradually; your team will advise on lifting and return to gym/sport.

Wound care and what is normal

• Keep dressings as advised. Showering is usually possible after a short period—follow your discharge instructions.
• Some redness and mild ooze can occur early; increasing redness, swelling, heat, or discharge should be reviewed.
• A firm lump can persist for weeks and does not necessarily indicate recurrence.

Possible complications (overview)

All operations carry risks. Your consultation will include a personalised discussion. Depending on the procedure, potential issues include bruising/seroma, wound infection, pain, urinary retention, recurrence, and (rarely) injury to nearby structures. Seek advice urgently if you develop chest pain, breathlessness, high fever, or significant wound problems.

Practice information

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