Hernia Surgery

Q: What happens if a hernia is left untreated?

A hernia will not improve without surgery and tends to worsen over time. Left untreated it can become incarcerated or strangulated, which cuts off blood flow to trapped tissue, can cause tissue death, and requires emergency surgery.

Q: How much does hernia surgery cost?

Costs depend on individual circumstances and health insurance. An initial consultation is needed to confirm diagnosis before a detailed cost estimate can be provided.

Q: Is hernia surgery dangerous?

Hernia surgery is generally low risk, especially when performed electively. Common risks include bruising, infection, or fluid/blood collection at the incision site.

Q: What is surgical mesh, and is it safe?

Mesh, usually made from synthetic polymers, reinforces the weakened abdominal wall to reduce recurrence risk. It differs from the specific mesh products involved in overseas legal cases, which generally relate to a different application.

Q: Can hernia surgery be performed robotically?

Yes. Studies show laparoscopic and robotic hernia repair have similar safety profiles and outcomes, though robotic surgery may take longer to perform.

Q: How much pain is there after hernia surgery?

Pain varies by patient and is usually manageable with over-the-counter medication. Most patients are discharged the day after surgery, with about two weeks of recommended leave to recover.

Q: Is recovery different for elderly patients?

Recovery timeframes are similar regardless of age. Most patients over 80 are free of pain within 2 weeks and can resume all activities, including lifting, after 4 weeks.

What is a Hernia?

A hernia occurs when a weakened or torn section of your abdominal muscles allows an organ-typically part of your intestine-to push through, creating a noticeable bulge under your skin. This condition can cause discomfort or pain and may worsen with chronic coughing, constipation, or heavy lifting. In fact, while hernias affect both men and women, statistics show that 1 in 20 men will develop a hernia during their lifetime, with 90% occurring in the groin area.

Types of Hernia Treated by Dr Golani

Hernia Surgery, Sydney Surgery, Inguinal, Femoral, direct, indirect

Abdominal Hernias

Epigastric Hernia - A bulge along the midline below the breastbone
Incisional/Ventral Hernia - Occurs at the site of a previous surgical incision (Read more here)
Umbilical Hernia - Develops near the navel (Read more here)

Groin Hernias

Inguinal Hernia - The most common type, where tissue-often part of the intestine-pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall (Read more about inguinal hernias here)
Femoral Hernia - Occurs when tissue protrudes through the muscle wall near the groin or inner thigh (Read more about femoral hernias here)

Expert Hernia Surgery in Sydney - Why Choose Dr. Golani?

Looking for a trusted, highly experienced hernia surgeon in Sydney? Dr. Golani combines first-class expertise, cutting-edge techniques, and personalised care to ensure exceptional surgical outcomes. Here's why he's the top choice for hernia repair:

Unparalleled Surgical Expertise

Expertise You Can Trust: With more than two decades of experience, Dr. Golani has consulted and operated on thousands of patients. His extensive knowledge ensures accurate diagnoses, tailored treatment recommendations, and smoother recovery processes

Advanced Minimally Invasive Hernia Repair

Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery Specialist: Specialising in laparoscopic hernia surgery, Dr. Golani utilises the latest techniques to minimise pain, accelerate recovery, and reduce scarring compared to traditional open surgery.

Proven Surgical Excellence

Outstanding Clinical Outcomes: Thousands of successful procedures and published clinical research underline Dr Golani's precision and commitment to high surgical standards.

Accreditation & Cutting-Edge

Elite Credentials: A certified member of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS), the Colorectal Surgical Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSSANZ) and the Gastroenterological Society of Australia (GESA), Dr Golani remains current with evidence-based advancements, ensuring you receive optimal care.

Personalised Patient Care

Tailored Treatment Plans: Every patient receives a customised treatment plan designed to address their unique health needs with maximum precision.

Dedicated Support Team

Continuous Assistance: Dr. Golani's highly responsive team is available to provide expert guidance, answer your questions, and offer ongoing support throughout your treatment journey.

For expert hernia surgery in Sydney, schedule a consultation with Dr. Golani today to discuss your treatment options!

State-of-the-Art Hernia Repair Surgery

Most hernia surgeries at our clinic involve using a soft mesh to reinforce the weakened area. This method has been backed by decades of clinical research, significantly reducing the risk of recurrence. However, untreated hernias may increase in size or lead to severe complications-such as intestinal strangulation-that require emergency surgery. With early intervention by a highly skilled surgeon like Dr. Golani, you can safeguard your health and prevent these risks.

Important Recovery Guidelines

After your hernia surgery with Dr. Golani, you can expect a well-managed recovery process:

No driving for 5 days post-discharge from hospital
Your dressings are waterproof so you can shower as normal.
Do not sit/soak in a bath for 7 days.
Leave your dressings in place for 7 days and can be removed by the yourself
Bruising and intermittent pain may continue for a few days
Lifting weights may cause complications in your hernia repair. Limit lifting anything heavier than 8kgs for 4 weeks post-surgery. Additionally, you should not lift anything heavier than 15kgs for a further 4 weeks post-surgery
Use regular fibre supplement such a Metamucil will help avoid constipation
Walking unrestricted is allowed post discharge
Cycling/running/swimming is allowed 2 weeks post discharge
No special diet post-surgery is required to be followed.
Make an appointment to see Dr Golani 4 weeks post-surgery.

Hernia Surgery - Frequently Asked Questions

General questions about hernias and hernia repair surgery. For questions specific to a particular hernia type, see the FAQ section on the inguinal, femoral, umbilical, or ventral hernia page.

What happens if a hernia is left untreated?

A hernia will not improve without surgery, and tends to get worse or larger over time even if it isn't currently causing symptoms. Left untreated, it can become incarcerated (trapped in the muscle wall) or strangulated, where blood flow to the trapped tissue is cut off. Strangulation can lead to tissue death and requires emergency surgery, and in serious cases can lead to life-threatening infection. Because of this, it's recommended to seek medical advice as soon as you suspect you have a hernia - though the decision to proceed with surgery is always made together with your GP and Dr Golani.

How much does hernia surgery cost?

Costs depend on your individual circumstances and health insurance, so an initial consultation is needed to confirm your diagnosis before a detailed estimate can be given. Read more about hospital and insurance options here.

Is hernia surgery dangerous?

Hernia surgery is generally considered low risk, particularly when performed electively rather than as an emergency. As with any surgery there are risks, the most common being bruising, infection, or a collection of fluid (seroma) or blood (haematoma) at the incision site - which is one reason Dr Golani recommends a laparoscopic approach where possible. Your individual risk profile will be discussed based on your medical history.

What is surgical mesh, and is it safe?

Mesh - usually made from synthetic polymers - is commonly used during hernia repair to reinforce the weakened abdominal wall and reduce the risk of the hernia recurring. It's worth noting that the mesh used in modern hernia surgery is different from the specific mesh products and procedures that have been the subject of legal cases overseas, which generally relate to a different application (pelvic/vaginal mesh) rather than hernia repair.

Can hernia surgery be performed robotically?

Yes, a robotic approach is possible. However, research has shown that laparoscopic and robotic hernia repair have similar safety profiles and postoperative outcomes, and the robotic approach may take longer to perform. Dr Golani will discuss which approach is most suitable for you.

How much pain is there after hernia surgery?

Pain levels vary from patient to patient - some experience moderate pain, others very little. Over-the-counter pain relief is usually sufficient. Most patients are discharged the day after surgery, or sometimes the same day, and around two weeks of leave from work is generally recommended to rest and recover.

Is recovery different for elderly patients?

Recovery timeframes are similar regardless of age. Patients are encouraged to stay mobile but should avoid lifting weights that could put strain on the repair. Most patients over 80 are free of pain and side effects within 2 weeks, and are able to resume all activities, including lifting, after 4 weeks.

What anaesthesia is used for hernia surgery?

Hernia surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia, which ensures your comfort and safety throughout the procedure.

What are the general benefits and risks of surgical repair?

Surgical repair is effective at relieving symptoms, reducing the risk of complications, and improving quality of life. As with any operation, risks such as infection, bleeding, or recurrence exist and should be discussed with Dr Golani in the context of your specific hernia and health history.

Your Consultation

Still have questions? Dr Golani will discuss the specifics of your diagnosis and treatment during your consultation. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to select the hospital for your procedure and potentially set the date for your procedure.

The best surgical hospitals in Sydney are available for your surgery:

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Golani, please contact our team for a consultation with Dr Golani. We have appointments available at three convenient locations across Sydney: