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Hernia Surgery
Hernia surgery

Hernias, explained simply.

If you have been told you have a hernia, here is what you should know. A hernia does not go away on its own, but it can often be repaired safely. An assessment will show the best next step.

Keyhole surgery where suitable
Assessment before any recommendation
A man sitting calmly on an examination couch during a consultation
What it is

What is a hernia?

A hernia happens when tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle wall of the belly. It often shows up as a soft bulge in the groin or around the belly button. The bulge may be more noticeable when you stand, cough or lift, and may flatten when you lie down.

Groin (inguinal)

The most common type, especially in men. A bulge in the groin or scrotum.

Belly button (umbilical)

A bulge at or near the belly button, in adults and children.

Incisional

A bulge through or near the scar of a previous operation.

Signs and symptoms

What you may notice.

A bulge that comes and goes, often bigger at the end of the day
An ache, heaviness or dragging feeling in the groin or belly
Discomfort when lifting, coughing or straining
Some hernias cause no pain at all
When to see a surgeon

Do not wait for it to get worse.

Book a consultation if you notice a new bulge, if a known hernia is getting bigger, or if it is affecting your work or daily life. Getting checked early gives you more options.

GO TO THE NEAREST EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT IF

Your hernia becomes suddenly painful, hard or tender, cannot be pushed back in, or you also have vomiting, a swollen belly or fever. These can be signs of a trapped hernia that needs urgent care.

Your consultation

What happens at your assessment.

We listen

Your symptoms, history, work and what worries you most.

We examine

A gentle examination, standing and lying down. An ultrasound may be arranged.

We explain

What type of hernia it is and the options that fit you, in plain language.

Treatment options

How hernias are repaired.

Hernias do not heal by themselves. Many can be repaired safely, often with keyhole surgery, using a mesh to strengthen the weak area. Some small hernias that cause no symptoms may be watched for a time. Your treatment options depend on your symptoms and findings.

Keyhole (laparoscopic) repair

A few small cuts and a camera. Can often mean less pain and a quicker return to normal activity.

Open repair

One cut over the hernia. Sometimes the safest choice, depending on the hernia and your health.

What to expect

Before, during and after.

A consultation and examination. An ultrasound may be arranged if the hernia is hard to feel.
Pre-surgery checks, which may include blood tests and a review of your medications.
Clear instructions on eating, drinking and which medicines to pause.
Arrange someone to take you home and stay with you for the first night.
Most hernia repairs are done under general anaesthesia, so you are asleep.
With keyhole repair, a few small cuts are made and a mesh is usually placed to strengthen the weak spot.
Many patients go home the same day. Some stay one night.
Walking is encouraged from the first day.
Light activity usually returns within one to two weeks; avoid heavy lifting for as long as advised.
Return to work depends on your job. Desk work is often sooner than physical work.
A follow-up visit checks your healing and answers any questions.
Watch
Dr. Vaccianna explains

Will my hernia go away on its own?

More short answers

Dr. Vaccianna answers patient questions every week on Instagram.

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Questions

Hernia questions.

Will my hernia go away on its own?
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No. A hernia does not heal by itself, and it often slowly gets bigger. The good news is that most hernias can be repaired safely. An assessment shows the best time and way to do it.

Can I delay surgery?
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Some small hernias that cause no symptoms may be watched for a time. Others are better repaired sooner. Dr. Vaccianna will explain which applies to you and the warning signs to look out for.

Is keyhole repair available for me?
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Keyhole repair suits many hernias, but not all. It depends on the type and size of the hernia, any previous operations and your general health.

How long is recovery?
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Many people are walking the same day and back to light activity within one to two weeks. Heavy lifting usually waits longer. You will get advice for your job and lifestyle.

Will the hernia come back?
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Repairs are usually long-lasting, and mesh lowers the chance of the hernia returning. No repair can be guaranteed for life, so follow your recovery advice closely.

Book a consultation

Speak with Dr. Vaccianna about your hernia.

A proper assessment shows the best next step. The team will offer you the earliest suitable time.

Book an appointmentCall (876) 448-5994
(876) 448-5994
Mon to Fri, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Unit 2B, 17 Ruthven Road, Kingston 10

Your next step starts with a conversation.

Book a consultation with Dr. Vaccianna. We will assess your symptoms properly and explain your options in plain language.