If you have an inguinal hernia (where tissue pushes through a weak spot in your abdomen), your doctor will likely recommend that you undergo hernia surgery to correct the problem. An inguinal hernia causes a bulge in your groin or scrotum. The bulge can hurt or burn, and makes everyday tasks, like lifting items, much more painful.

If your hernia can be pushed back (reduced), your hernia surgery can likely be done at your convenience. If your hernia cannot be pushed back, your surgery must be done sooner.

Who is a candidate?

If you have an inguinal hernia, you will likely need to undergo hernia surgery to correct the problem. Your doctor will let you know if you can schedule surgery at your convenience, or if you need to undergo hernia surgery sooner. If your hernia is small and you don’t have symptoms, you may not need surgery.

What to expect

Your doctor will perform your laparoscopic (minimally invasive) hernia surgery on an outpatient basis, meaning you go home the same day. You will be under general anesthesia (asleep) for your surgery. During the procedure, your doctor:

• Makes a small cut (incision) in or just below your navel (belly button)
• Inflates your abdomen with air so they can see your organs better
• Inserts a thin, lighted scope (laparoscope) through the incision, along with the instruments needed for the hernia repair
• Repairs your hernia
• Removes the laparoscope and instruments through the incision, and closes it

You should expect to mostly recover within one to two weeks following surgery. You should generally wait about four weeks to return to strenuous exercise and other activity.

Why Choose UHealth?

A broad array of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Regardless of your age, condition, or whether you need long- or short-term digestive treatments, you will receive the most accurate diagnosis and most effective treatment to keep your stomach, digestive system, and organs healthy.