There is typically not a single reason that someone develops a hernia, however the most common causes are chronic cough, chronic constipation, persistent heavy lifting, multiple pregnancies, or disease of connective tissue. There is no true way to avoid getting hernias but getting a chronic cough or constipation under control may be protective.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happens if a hernia is left untreated?

Depending on the type of hernia, leaving them untreated can be disastrous. For smaller hernias without symptoms, watching and waiting is a reasonable option in a motivated patient, however in larger hernias, intestine or other organs can get stuck and can “strangulate”, causing pain and putting the intestine or organ at risk of dying. The only hernias which can be safely monitored are small belly button or groin hernias without symptoms.

Q: How serious is hernia surgery?

Hernia surgery can range from a 30-minute procedure done under local anesthesia to a 8-10 hour complex reconstruction. In general, most hernia surgery at specialized centers such as our own, have adopted robotic technology which allow us to fix larger and more complex hernias through several small incisions as opposed to a large incision. This allows patients to be discharged after a short hospital stay with less pain and risk of complications.

Q: What is the recovery time for hernia surgery?

Most hernia surgery can be done on an outpatient basis, and typically pain and soreness may only last 1-2 weeks. Afterwards, most patients feel back to normal. Some patients feel like going back to work after 1-2 days! For larger or more complex hernias, the recovery may be longer, but your surgeon will explain the whole process.

Q: Do hernias cause constipation?

This is more likely to be the other way around! Chronic constipation can lead to increased pressure inside of your belly, which has a higher likelihood of creating hernias.

Q: What types of hernias are there?

There are several different types of hernias, but the most common types are groin and abdominal hernias, however hernias can present in the chest or back as well.

Q: When can I go back to work after hernia surgery?

We recommend taking 1 week off from work for recovery. Some patients may even feel like going back to work after a couple of days, but 1 week is about average for recovery.

Q: Why is mesh used in hernia surgery?

Hernias tend to develop in areas of weakness of the abdominal wall. Bringing together weak tissue may not be enough for an effective repair. Mesh is a synthetic material used to reinforce weak tissue. Multiple studies have shown that this reduces the risk of recurrence of the hernia without increasing complication rate, and have been shown to be quite safe with the risk of allergic reaction or rejection to be extremely rare.

Q: What if I have a hernia and I’m pregnant?

We recommend waiting until delivery until addressing the hernia, as pregnancy puts the repair at risk of failing, however if surgery is needed, it is typically done in the 2nd trimester, where risk to the mother and fetus are the lowest.

Q: What is the most common kind of hernia?

The most common kind of hernia is an inguinal hernia. Up to 15 percent of men and 2 percent of women will develop an inguinal hernia at some point during their lifetime.

What happens if a hernia is left untreated?

Some hernias can be monitored, while others need surgery. The decision depends on the hernia’s type, symptoms, size, and your health. A hernia can become larger or trap bowel or other tissue. If the blood supply is affected, this is called strangulation and requires urgent treatment. Ask your surgeon whether observation is appropriate for you.

Severe or worsening pain, vomiting, or a painful bulge that no longer goes back in needs urgent medical assessment.

How serious is hernia surgery?

Hernia operations range from relatively short procedures to complex abdominal wall reconstruction. Open, laparoscopic, and robotic approaches each have a role. The operation, anesthesia, risks, and expected hospital stay depend on your hernia and overall health. Your surgeon will explain the recommended approach and alternatives.

What is the recovery time for hernia surgery?

Some repairs are outpatient procedures; others require a hospital stay. Pain, soreness, and recovery vary with the operation and its complexity. Your surgeon will provide an individualized plan for activity, medicines, and follow-up. Feeling better does not always mean the repair is ready for unrestricted activity.

Do hernias cause constipation?

Chronic constipation and straining can increase pressure inside the abdomen and may contribute to hernia development. A hernia that traps bowel can also interfere with bowel function. Constipation with vomiting, increasing abdominal swelling, or significant pain needs prompt assessment.

What types of hernias are there?

Common types include inguinal and femoral hernias in the groin, umbilical hernias near the belly button, and incisional hernias at a previous surgical scar. Hernias can also occur in other locations, including the diaphragm or back. See our guide to hernia types.

What causes hernias?

There is often more than one contributing factor. Tissue weakness, previous surgery, chronic cough, constipation, repeated heavy lifting, multiple pregnancies, and connective tissue disorders may play a role. Addressing a chronic cough or constipation may help reduce strain, but hernias cannot always be prevented.

When can I go back to work after hernia surgery?

Timing depends on your operation, recovery, and job duties. Desk work and physically demanding work may require different plans. Discuss lifting, commuting, and any workplace accommodations with your surgeon before surgery, and follow their instructions.

Why is mesh used in hernia surgery?

Mesh reinforces weakened tissue and can reduce the chance of recurrence in appropriate repairs. It also carries potential risks, including infection and persistent pain. Your surgeon will discuss the material, placement, benefits, and risks for your case. Selected inguinal hernias may be suitable for mesh-free repair.

What if I have a hernia and I’m pregnant?

Discuss the hernia with your obstetric clinician and a hernia surgeon. Timing depends on your symptoms, the type of hernia, and the pregnancy. Repair may be deferred until after delivery when appropriate. If surgery is necessary during pregnancy, your teams will coordinate an individualized plan. New severe pain or vomiting needs urgent assessment.

What is the most common kind of hernia?

Inguinal hernias, which occur in the groin, are the most common type and are more common in men. Learn more about inguinal hernias and repair options.

When should a patient seek a specialized hernia center?

Consider a specialist consultation for a previous failed repair, mesh infection or other mesh complications, a large or recurrent hernia, or when your surgeon anticipates that standard techniques may not provide a durable repair.

Why do hernia repairs fail?

Recurrence can involve tissue quality, surgical technique, health-related risk factors, and healing. A recurrent hernia needs a fresh assessment; a different repair or reconstructive approach may be appropriate.

What is abdominal wall reconstruction?

Abdominal wall reconstruction uses advanced techniques to restore the abdominal wall’s structure and function, often for large, complex, or recurrent hernias. Your surgeon will explain which techniques fit your anatomy and goals.