NHS Hernia Repair Surgery: Patient Guide
A hernia occurs when an internal part of the body (such as fatty tissue or the bowel) pushes through a weakness in the surrounding muscle or tissue wall. The NHS performs tens of thousands of hernia repair operations each year. This guide covers the types of hernia, surgical options, and what recovery involves.
- Common types: Inguinal (groin), umbilical (navel), femoral, hiatus (stomach)
- Surgical options: Open repair or laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery
- Anaesthetic: General (or local/regional for some open repairs)
- Hospital stay: Usually day case or 1 night
- Return to light work: 1–3 weeks (open); 1–2 weeks (laparoscopic)
- Return to heavy work/sport: 4–6 weeks
Types of Hernia
Inguinal hernia — the most common type, appearing as a bulge in the groin. More common in men. Fatty tissue or part of the bowel pushes through the inguinal canal.
Umbilical hernia — a bulge around the belly button. Common in newborns (often resolves naturally), but also occurs in adults, particularly those who are overweight or have had multiple pregnancies.
Hiatus hernia — the stomach pushes up into the chest through an opening in the diaphragm. Often causes acid reflux and heartburn. May be managed medically or surgically depending on severity.
Open vs Laparoscopic Repair
Open repair: The surgeon makes a single incision directly over the hernia, pushes the bulging tissue back in, and reinforces the weakened area — typically using surgical mesh. This is the traditional approach and remains common.
Laparoscopic (keyhole) repair: Three or four small incisions allow the surgeon to insert a camera (laparoscope) and repair the hernia with mesh from inside. Advantages include faster recovery, less pain, and smaller scars, particularly for bilateral (both sides) and recurrent hernias.
Recovery
- Rest for the first few days; avoid heavy lifting for at least 4–6 weeks
- Laparoscopic patients typically recover faster (1–2 weeks) than open repair (2–3 weeks)
- Some discomfort and swelling in the groin/operation site is normal for several weeks
- Follow up with your surgical team as directed
Disclaimer: Educational information only. Consult your GP or surgeon for personal advice. Full disclaimer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all hernias need surgery?
Not all hernias require immediate surgery. Small, symptom-free inguinal hernias may be managed through watchful waiting. However, if the hernia is causing significant pain, growing, or risks becoming trapped (strangulated), surgery is the recommended treatment on the NHS.
What is recovery like after NHS hernia repair?
Recovery after laparoscopic (keyhole) hernia repair is typically 1–2 weeks before returning to light activities. Open surgery recovery takes 4–6 weeks. Both require avoiding heavy lifting for at least 4–6 weeks. Your surgical team will advise you on your specific restrictions.
Can a hernia come back after surgery?
Recurrence is possible but uncommon with modern mesh repair techniques. Recurrence rates are typically 1–3% for inguinal hernias. Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding heavy lifting, and preventing straining during bowel movements can all help reduce the risk of recurrence.