What is umbilical hernia repair surgery?

Umbilical hernia repair surgery is a procedure that fixes umbilical hernias. An umbilical hernia involves a bulge or pouch that forms in the abdomen. This type of bulge occurs when a section of the intestine or other abdominal cavity tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall near the belly button. It can develop in young children and adults.

In rare cases, adults with umbilical hernias can develop a serious condition called strangulation. Strangulation occurs when the blood flow to the herniated tissue is suddenly cut off. This can occur in umbilical hernias that are non-reducible or can’t be pushed back into abdominal cavity. 

Symptoms of strangulation include nausea, vomiting, and severe pain. The area around the umbilical hernia might look blue, as if you have a bruise. The herniated contents could also become nonfunctional and die if they’re strangulated. 

Why is umbilical hernia repair surgery done?

Umbilical hernias don’t always require surgical repair. Surgery is needed when the hernia:

• causes pain
• is larger than half an inch 
• is strangulated

Umbilical hernias in adults are less likely to go away on their own. They usually grow larger over time and often require surgical repair.

How do I prepare for umbilical hernia repair surgery?

Umbilical hernia repair surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. This means that you’ll be fully asleep and won’t experience any pain. 

You’ll likely need to stop taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen several days before the surgery. This will reduce your risk of significant bleeding during the procedure. 

Fasting for at least six hours before surgery is generally a standard requirement. However, Dr. Enriquez may give you different instructions before the surgery.

Umbilical hernia repair surgery is performed in two different ways: open hernia repair or laparoscopic hernia repair.

What happens if a hernia is left untreated?

Potential complications of a hernia. If left untreated, your hernia may grow and become more painful. A portion of your intestine could become trapped in the abdominal wall. This can obstruct your bowel and cause severe pain, nausea, or constipation.

How long does it take to recover from umbilical hernia repair surgery?

You’ll be taken to a recovery room to fully wake up after the procedure. Hospital staff will monitor your vital signs, including your breathing, oxygenation, heart rate, temperature, and blood pressure. Most umbilical hernia repair surgeries are done on an outpatient basis. This means you’ll likely be able to go home the same day or the morning after an overnight stay.

Dr. Enriquez will give you pain relieving medications and instructions to keep your stitches clean and dry. They’ll schedule a follow-up appointment within a couple weeks to assess your healing. Most people can return to their full range of activities within a few weeks after surgery. It’s possible for another umbilical hernia to develop in the future, but this is fairly rare.

What is the recovery time for an umbilical hernia surgery?

After recovery, you can usually return to work within 2 to 3 days. You will not be able to lift anything over 10 pounds, climb, or do strenuous activity for 4 to 6 weeks following surgical repair of an umbilical hernia.

Is umbilical hernia surgery painful?

It’s normal to feel sore and uncomfortable immediately after surgery. Local anesthetic, which numbs the area, will be injected before the end of the operation to reduce the pain. Painkillers will also be provided.

Can I climb stairs after hernia surgery?

There are no medical or physical restrictions on activity after surgery. That means it is OK to walk, climb stairs, lift, have sexual intercourse, mow the lawn, or exercise as long as it doesn’t hurt. In fact, returning to normal activity as soon as possible will most likely enhance your recovery.

When to Call the Doctor

Call your doctor if:

• There is more redness, pain, swelling, or bleeding at the wound site.
• The wound is larger or deeper, or it looks dried out or dark.
• The drainage coming from or around the wound increases or becomes thick, tan, green, or yellow, or smells bad (which indicates pus).
• Your temperature is 100.5°F (38°C) or higher.

 

*We provide procedure education for prospective patients and those who educate them. It is not intended to take the place of a discussion with a qualified surgeon who is familiar with your situation. The American College of Surgeons (ACS) makes every effort to provide information that is accurate and timely, but makes no guarantee in this regard.