Dr Harsh Shah
MS, MCh (Surgical Gastroenterology), DrNB (Surgical Gastroenterology)
Registered with Gujarat Medical Council, Reg. No. G-38738
Hernia Surgeon · Dr. Jivraj Mehta Hospital, Vasna, Ahmedabad
In short
- It depends on the hernia. A small groin or belly button repair is a modest operation. A large scar or hiatal hernia repair is bigger.
- Most groin and belly button repairs take about a hour and many people go home the same day or the next morning.
- Any operation under anaesthesia is serious and needs a check first. Size changes the hospital stay and recovery, not the care taken.
People often ask this as soon as they hear they need a hernia repair. The honest answer is that it depends on your hernia and its size.
This page explains what makes the operation small or large, and what that means for you.
What makes the operation bigger
A small repair
A first groin hernia or a small belly button hernia needs a modest operation. Keyhole repair uses two or three small cuts.
Most people walk the same day, and many go home that evening or the next morning.
How big is the operation for each type of hernia
How big is the operation for each type of hernia
| Hernia | Usual hospital stay | Usual return to desk work |
|---|---|---|
| Small groin hernia, one side | Same day or one night | About one to two weeks |
| Groin hernias on both sides | One night | About two weeks |
| Small belly button hernia | Same day or one night | About one to two weeks |
| Large hernia in an old scar | A few days | Several weeks |
| Hiatal hernia | One or two nights | About two weeks |
Want to know how big your own hernia repair would be? A consultation can explain it with your scan and examination.
A larger repair
A large hernia in an old scar may need the muscles to be moved and closed over a wide mesh. This takes longer. You stay in hospital for a few days.
Healing is slower. The team watches your breathing, pain and bowel more closely.
Small does not mean careless
Every operation needs a health check, a clear plan and good care after. Your surgeon will check your sugar, blood pressure, heart and lungs first.
Ask how long it will take, how many nights you will stay, and when you can work again. The answers tell you how big your own operation is.
Frequently asked questions
Is hernia surgery minor surgery?
A small groin or belly button repair is a modest operation, often done as day care. Large or repeat hernias need a bigger operation.
How long will I be in hospital?
Many groin and belly button repairs go home the same day or the next morning. Large repairs may need a few days.
Is general anaesthesia always needed?
Keyhole repair needs general anaesthesia. Some open groin repairs can be done with spinal or local anaesthesia.
How much time off work will I need?
Desk work often in one to two weeks after a small repair. Heavy work usually waits four to six weeks. Your surgeon will guide you.
Does a bigger operation mean a bigger risk?
Larger repairs carry more risk and a longer recovery. Your surgeon will explain your own risks before you agree to surgery.
Related pages
The main page on this site is hernia surgery in Ahmedabad. These cover the neighbouring questions.
Where to find us
Dr Harsh Shah, MS, MCh (Surgical Gastroenterology), DrNB (Surgical Gastroenterology)
Dr. Jivraj Mehta Hospital, Vasna, Ahmedabad
Bring your reports. Second opinions are welcome.