The 5 Most Common Questions About Umbilical Hernia Surgery
Umbilical hernias are more common than many people realize, and they can happen at any age. While most umbilical hernias are not immediately dangerous, the idea of needing surgery can still feel stressful. Patients often ask the same questions before meeting with a surgeon, especially when it comes to pain, recovery time, risks, and the best repair method.
This blog answers the five most common questions about umbilical hernia surgery, plus a few additional topics patients should understand before deciding on treatment.
1) What Causes an Umbilical Hernia?
In some cases, when the abdominal wall is weak or the hernia is large, surgeons may use mesh to strengthen the repair. Understanding hernia repair with surgical mesh can provide valuable insights into why this method is often recommended. An umbilical hernia happens when tissue, often fat or part of the intestine, pushes through a weak area in the abdominal wall near the belly button.
Common reasons an umbilical hernia develops include:
- Increased abdominal pressure, which can strain the abdominal wall
- Weakness around the belly button, often present since birth
- Pregnancy, especially multiple pregnancies
- Obesity or significant weight gain
- Heavy lifting or repetitive straining
- Chronic coughing
- Constipation (straining during bowel movements)
Umbilical hernias can happen to children, but they also occur in adults, particularly when pressure builds over time.
2) What Are the Typical Symptoms of an Umbilical Hernia?
Many people first notice an umbilical hernia as a visible bulge near the belly button, especially when standing, coughing, or engaging the core.
Typical umbilical hernia symptoms include:
- A soft bulge around the navel
- Discomfort or mild pain, especially when bending, coughing, or lifting
- A pulling or pressure sensation near the belly button
- A bulge that may go away when lying down
Some people don’t feel much pain at all. Others experience soreness that becomes more noticeable as the hernia grows or becomes more irritated.
When symptoms become urgent
In some cases, a hernia can become incarcerated (stuck) or strangulated (blood supply is reduced), which can be serious.
Seek urgent medical care if you experience:
- Sudden intense pain
- Fever
- Nausea or vomiting
- Redness or discoloration near the bulge
- A bulge that becomes firm and won’t go back in
- Bloating or inability to pass gas or stool
3) Should I Get Umbilical Hernia Surgery, or Can I Leave It Untreated?
This is one of the biggest questions people ask: Do I really need surgery?
The answer depends on your symptoms, risk level, and whether the hernia is growing.
In children
Umbilical hernias in children often close on their own, especially within the first few years of life. Surgery might be recommended if the hernia:
- Has not closed by a certain age
- Is large
- Causes symptoms or complications
- Becomes incarcerated
In adults
Umbilical hernias in adults are less likely to heal without treatment. A small hernia may be monitored, but many surgeons recommend repair because hernias often:
- Get bigger over time
- Causes increasing discomfort
- Carry some risk of incarceration or strangulation
What are the risks of leaving an umbilical hernia untreated?
If untreated, an adult umbilical hernia can lead to complications such as:
- Worsening pain or pressure
- Larger bulge and increased tissue involvement
- Higher risk of incarceration
- In rare cases, strangulation requires emergency surgery
Even if the hernia isn’t painful today, many patients choose surgery to avoid future risk and to improve their quality of life.
4) Does Umbilical Hernia Surgery Hurt? (During & After)
Pain is one of the most common concerns about umbilical hernia repair, and it’s completely normal to wonder what the experience will feel like.
During surgery
Most umbilical hernia surgeries are performed under:
- General anesthesia, meaning you’ll be asleep and won’t feel pain during the procedure
After surgery
It’s common to have soreness around the incision area for the first several days.
Most patients describe post-surgery pain as:
- A tight or pulling feeling
- A dull ache near the belly button
- Mild to moderate soreness with movement
Are pain medications needed?
Some patients only need over-the-counter medication, while others may need prescription pain medication for a short period. Your surgeon will guide you on:
- What’s safe to take
- How long to take it
- When you can switch to non-prescription options
Pain improves steadily for most people, especially when they follow recovery instructions and avoid straining too soon.
5) How Long Does Umbilical Hernia Surgery Recovery Take?
The recovery timeline after hernia surgery can vary based on factors like the repair method and individual health.
Recovery depends on factors like:
- Hernia size
- Repair method used (open vs laparoscopic vs robotic)
- Whether mesh was used
- Your overall health and activity level
Typical recovery timeline (general guide)
Most people can expect:
- Same-day discharge in many cases
- Light activity within a few days
- Returning to work within 1–2 weeks, depending on job demands
- Avoiding heavy lifting for several weeks, often 4–6 weeks
How long do you stay in the hospital?
Many umbilical hernia repairs are outpatient procedures. In more complex cases, you may need a short hospital stay.
Your surgeon will advise you based on your case and repair approach.
What Are the Complications of Umbilical Hernia Surgery?
Proper post-surgery care, including dietary adjustments after hernia surgery, is essential for a smooth recovery and to reduce complications. Umbilical hernia repair is generally safe, but as with any surgery, complications can occur.
Possible risks may include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Seroma (fluid buildup)
- Pain lasting longer than expected
- Mesh-related issues (if mesh is used)
- Hernia recurrence
The overall risk level depends on your health history and the complexity of the hernia.
Chances of recurrence
Recurrence can happen, especially if:
- The hernia is large
- You return to heavy lifting too early
- Weight gain increases abdominal pressure
- The abdominal wall is under significant strain
Following post-op instructions is one of the best ways to reduce recurrence risk.
What Are the Different Types of Surgical Repairs?
There are a few common approaches used for umbilical hernia repair, and your surgeon may recommend one depending on size, severity, and patient-specific factors.
Open umbilical hernia repair
- A small incision near the belly button
- The hernia is pushed back into place
- The abdominal wall is closed, sometimes with mesh
Laparoscopic repair
- Small incisions and a camera-guided approach
- Often less scarring and potentially faster recovery
- May use mesh to support the area
Robotic hernia repair
Robotic repair is similar to laparoscopic, but may offer:
- Improved precision
- Better visibility for the surgeon
- Potential benefits for certain patients depending on anatomy and hernia complexity
Your surgeon will decide what’s best based on your specific diagnosis and needs.
How to Prepare for Umbilical Hernia Surgery
If your doctor recommends surgery, a little preparation can make the process smoother.
Before your procedure, you may be advised to:
- Stop smoking (if applicable)
- Avoid certain medications (like blood thinners)
- Complete pre-surgery testing if required
- Arrange time off work and help at home
- Plan meals and reduce strenuous activities
Questions to ask your doctor
- What type of repair do you recommend and why?
- Will you use mesh?
- What restrictions will I have afterward?
- When can I return to work and exercise?
- What warning signs should I watch for?
Final Thoughts
Umbilical hernia surgery in Maryland is a common procedure, but the best outcomes come from understanding your options, knowing the risks, and being realistic about recovery. If you’re noticing symptoms, discomfort, or a growing bulge, it may be time to consult a surgeon for the safest next step and a personalized treatment plan.
If you’re considering a surgical evaluation, Ascension Saint Agnes Bariatric Surgery can help guide you toward the right care decisions and recovery plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an umbilical hernia heal on its own?
In children, yes, some close naturally. In adults, umbilical hernias usually don’t heal without treatment and may worsen over time.
How do I know if my umbilical hernia is serious?
If you experience severe pain, redness, vomiting, fever, or a bulge that won’t go back in, seek urgent medical attention.
Will I need mesh for umbilical hernia repair?
Mesh is sometimes recommended to reinforce the abdominal wall, especially for larger hernias or higher recurrence risk cases.
How soon can I exercise after umbilical hernia surgery?
Most patients can resume light movement quickly, but heavy lifting and intense workouts often need to wait several weeks based on surgeon guidance.
What should I avoid after umbilical hernia surgery?
Most surgeons recommend avoiding heavy lifting, intense abdominal strain, and activities that increase pressure on the repair site during early recovery.