An incisional hernia repair is surgery performed to repair your incisional hernia. Your surgeon will push the lump back into your abdomen and, reinforce the weakened scar area.

An incisional hernia, like any hernia can be dangerous if it becomes strangulated. A strangulated hernia happens when a section of your bowel gets trapped causing its blood supply to be cut off and, requires immediate medical attention.

Most incisional hernia repairs are elective and, typically performed when the hernia has got bigger with surgery being the only way to resolve them.

Incisional hernia repair surgery can be performed by:

• open incisional hernia repair surgery – your scar is re-opened through a large cut and your surgeon will move your hernia back into its correct place.
• laparoscopic incisional hernia repair - a long, thin tube with a camera attached, called a laparoscope, is inserted through a small cut in your abdomen so that your surgeon can see the hernia from the inside. They will return the hernia to its correct position, remove any scar tissue and close the weak spot.

Both procedures typically insert a surgical mesh to repair and reinforce the weakened area.

The incisions in your skin are then closed using stitches or surgical glue.

Your surgeon will discuss with you the best method of surgery for your incisional hernia.

General complications of any operation include: pain, bleeding, wound infection, blood clots and, scarring.

Complications specific to an incisional hernia repair include: damage to your internal organs, mesh infection, a lump forming beneath the wound, problems urinating, necrosis, nerve damage, the removal of the umbilicus or belly button and, occasionally the hernia comes back.

If you decide to pay for your treatment, Ramsay offer an all-inclusive Total Care package, where a single one-off payment at a pre-agreed price, delivering direct access to all the treatment you need for complete reassurance. You can also spread the cost of your treatment with finance options available.

An incisional hernia repair surgery may be covered by your medical insurance policy. We advise you to check directly with your insurance provider and get written confirmation before commencing treatment.

Your recovery will depend upon the type of incisional hernia repair surgery you have had.

Following an open incisional hernia repair you should be able to go home after one to four days. Exercise such as walking is encouraged to help your recovery. Your surgeon will advise when you can return to work.

If you’ve had laparoscopic incisional hernia repair surgery you can usually get back to your daily activities in a very short period of time.