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
- A groin hernia is more common after prostate removal surgery. The operation can weaken the tissues close to the inner groin.
- It usually shows as a soft groin bulge within the first year or two. It goes in when you lie down and returns on standing.
- The earlier operation leaves scarring behind the muscles. So the repair approach is chosen after examination and reading your prostate operation notes.
Some men notice a bulge in the groin in the months after prostate removal for cancer. This is often a groin hernia.
It is a known pattern after this operation. This page explains why it happens and what it means for the repair.
Why prostate surgery can lead to a hernia
The prostate lies deep in the pelvis, close to the inner side of the groin. Removing it changes the tissues around it, and the healing that follows can weaken the groin wall on one or both sides.
A small weakness that was already there may also enlarge after the operation. Age, coughing and straining add to the pressure.
How it shows
Most men notice a soft bulge in the groin, often within the first year or two. It is bigger when standing or coughing and goes in when lying down. There may be a dull ache, worse at the end of the day.
A groin bulge after prostate surgery: hernia or something else
A groin bulge after prostate surgery: hernia or something else
| Feature | Usually a hernia | Needs a closer look |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Soft and squashy | Hard, fixed or growing fast |
| Lying down | Goes in or gets smaller | Stays the same |
| Coughing | Bulges or pushes out | No change |
| Pain | Dull ache, worse at day's end | Severe pain with vomiting |
| Next step | Examination, sometimes an ultrasound | Examination and a scan |
Noticed a groin bulge after prostate surgery? Bring your prostate operation notes to the consultation.
Is it the cancer?
A soft bulge that goes in when you lie down is almost always a hernia, not the cancer. Still, any new lump after cancer treatment should be examined.
Tell your urologist as well. They will decide whether your prostate follow-up needs any change.
How the earlier operation changes the repair
Many groin hernias are repaired by keyhole surgery, with a mesh placed behind the muscles. After prostate surgery, this space has scarring from the earlier operation.
A repair is still possible, but the approach is chosen with care. Your surgeon will examine you, read your prostate operation notes and then advise an open or keyhole repair. Bring those notes and any recent PSA report to the visit.
Signs that need urgent care
Signs that need urgent care
- The bulge becomes hard, painful and will not go back in.
- You start vomiting or your belly swells.
- The skin over the bulge turns red or dark.
These need a hospital visit the same day.
Frequently asked questions
Can prostate removal surgery cause a hernia?
A groin hernia is more common in the months and years after prostate removal. The operation can weaken the tissues near the groin.
When does it usually appear?
Most appear within the first year or two after prostate surgery, as a bulge in the groin that goes away when lying down.
Does the hernia mean the cancer has come back?
No. A soft bulge that goes in when you lie down is usually a hernia. Your surgeon will examine you to be sure.
Can it be repaired by keyhole surgery?
Often yes. The earlier operation leaves scarring, so the approach is chosen after examining you and reading the prostate operation notes.
Should I tell my urologist about the hernia?
Yes. Both doctors should know, especially if you have follow-up treatment or tests planned for the prostate.
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.