Hernia Surgery Specialist, Sydney
Understanding Hernia Surgery
Hernia surgery is a common procedure to repair a hernia, which occurs when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. There are different types of hernias, including inguinal, femoral, umbilical, and hiatal
Here at SGOS, we are strong advocates for minimally invasive hernia surgery when possible.
Who Needs Hernia Surgery?
- Any patients who are fit for surgery and suffer from hernia symptoms
- Patients with a hernia that is increasing in size
- Patients with a hernia containing bowel or organs
- Patients who are planning to travel aboard
- Patients with an irreducible hernia who are in need of urgent surgical attention
Our Approach to Hernia Surgery
At your first consultation, Dr Cheng will help diagnose your hernia through a combination of history, examination and relevant imaging. He will also take a holistic approach in assessing your general health including any medical conditions that may need to be optimised prior to considering hernia surgery. This is also the time where Dr Cheng will work with you on the proposed surgical management plan in alleviating your hernia concerns.
Hernia surgery is relatively straight forward most of the time. In some instances, Dr Cheng would advise for specific managements to help maximise outcomes while reducing surgical risk. This is particularly relevant in higher risk patients with complex hernias.
This may include:
- Monitored weight loss
- Smoking cessation
- Adjunct procedures - abdominal wall botox
- Optimisation of heart, lung function
- Diabetes control
Here at SGOS, we aim to perform most of our hernia surgeries under general anaesthesia through minimally invasive techniques (keyhole surgery - laparoscopic or robotic). Dr. Cheng is an experienced laparoscopic surgeon who is also trained in robotic surgery.
This would involve several small incisions/ cuts (up to 1cm) where the goal is to:
- Reduce the hernial contents
- Close the hernial defect space
- Reinforce the underlying weak abdominal wall with suitable mesh. (note - mesh may not always be necessary)
In rare cases, an open approach to surgery may be required because of safety or prior complex surgical history.
Dr Cheng will tailor management to your needs and discuss the proposed surgical approach during your initial consultation.
Patients who undergo smaller hernia repairs may have the opportunity to be discharged on the day of surgery.
In most cases, expect 1-2 days in hospital.
Important aspects to adhere to after hernia surgery:
- Take regular pain relief for 1 week
- Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for 4 weeks
- Avoid driving for 5 days
- You may be advised to wear a hernia belt for 2 weeks
You will follow up with Dr Cheng after hernia surgery to ensure that you have recovered from surgery.
What is Surgical Mesh?
Surgical mesh is a medical material that is used to provide additional support to weakened or damaged tissue. The majority of surgical mesh devices currently available for use are constructed from either synthetic materials or animal tissue.
Advantages of Surgical mesh
Surgeons often use surgical mesh to strengthen the hernia repair and reduce the rate of recurrence. This has been shown through vigorous medical review and literature.
Never-the-less, surgical mesh is not always used, especially in the repair of smaller hernias. Dr Cheng will discuss with you the need for mesh repair for your hernia during your initial consultation.
Read more about surgical mesh here: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/implants-and-prosthetics/surgical-mesh-used-hernia-repair
Why Have Hernia Surgery With Us?
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High Volume Hernia Surgeon
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Minimally Invasive Surgery (Laparoscopic or Robotic)
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Holistic patient Care and Tailored Approach
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Member of ANZ Hernia Society
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Affordable Hernia Surgery
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Durable Results
