Hernias

Hernia Repair Surgery

A hernia occurs when tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or fascia.

They can develop quickly or over time and affect people of any age or sex. Common contributors include muscle weakness plus strain from being overweight, persistent coughing, pregnancy, heavy lifting or constipation.

Not every hernia needs surgery now - the right time depends on symptoms, risk and your health profile.

Hernia Symptoms & Diagnosis

Typical signs include a bulge, discomfort or pain that worsens with activity or straining.

Most hernias are diagnosed with a physical examination. Small abdominal-wall hernias may need an ultrasound or X-ray to confirm, and a hiatus hernia is usually assessed with endoscopy or other specialised tests.

When is Hernia Repair Recommended?

Most hernias enlarge over time. Larger hernias are harder to fix and more prone to recur. The average risk of dangerous complications from an untreated hernia is about 1% per year. Early, elective repair reduces the chance of emergency problems and supports better long-term outcomes.

A/Prof Michael Talbot tailors the operation to the type of hernia, its size and location. Where suitable, he prefers laparoscopic repair, which is associated with lower recurrence and infection rates. Open techniques and hybrid approaches are used when they offer a safer or more durable result for the individual patient.

What To Expect

Most repairs are performed under general anaesthesia.

Many patients go home the same day or after an overnight stay. Recovery time varies by hernia type and technique; you’ll receive clear guidance on activity, wound care and return to work or exercise.

Risks & Considerations

All surgery carries risk, including bleeding, infection, seroma, pain, anaesthesia-related issues and hernia recurrence.

Specific risks differ by hernia type and repair method (e.g for hiatus repairs, reflux control and swallowing function are key considerations). A/Prof Talbot will discuss personalised risks and benefits at consultation.

Bigger hernias are harder to fix and more likely to recur — early, planned repair is safer.”

Hernia Breakdown

Inguinal (groin) hernia

Very common and often increasingly uncomfortable over time.

Several open and keyhole repairs are available; A/Prof Talbot selects the technique that best fits your anatomy and lifestyle. Most patients choose repair because symptoms progress and the hernia tends to grow over time.

Umbilical (belly button) hernia

Often related to stretching or previous surgery.

While these are frequently repaired as open procedures, A/Prof Talbot prefers laparoscopic repair when appropriate, due to lower recurrence and infection rates.

Hiatus hernia (diaphragm)

Occurs when the opening in the diaphragm is too large, allowing the stomach or other abdominal contents to slip into the chest.

Several open and keyhole repairs are This can cause reflux/heartburn, swallowing difficulty, chest pain, regurgitation and reduced exercise capacity. Hiatus hernia repair is almost always performed laparoscopically and is safely undertaken in patients well into their 80’s.

Incisional hernia (at a previous scar)

Incisional hernias range from small, straightforward bulges amenable to keyhole techniques to massive, debilitating defects requiring complex reconstruction.

Elective repair is generally safer: emergency surgery carries ~10× the risk of complications and repair failure compared with planned procedures.

Complex abdominal wall reconstruction

For very large or multiple defects, often after major illness or significant weight loss, abdominal wall “remodelling” may be required.

This can involve muscle transfer, mesh placement and removal of excess skin. It’s a longer operation with weeks of recovery, but it can restore function and comfort and address cosmetic concerns.

Why Choose Upper GI Surgery?

Extensive hernia expertise - high-volume experience across inguinal, umbilical, incisional and hiatus hernias, from routine to highly complex cases.
Minimally invasive focus - keyhole techniques where appropriate to reduce pain, shorten hospital stay and lower infection/recurrence risk.
Tailored technique selection - open, laparoscopic or hybrid approaches chosen for durability and safety in your specific situation.
Advanced reconstruction skills - comprehensive abdominal wall reconstruction for massive and multi-defect hernias.
Integrated Upper GI care - specialist in reflux and therapeutic endoscopy, enabling coordinated management for patients with concurrent Upper GI conditions.