Laparoscopic Hernia Repair Surgery Explained
Laparoscopic hernia surgery is one of the more advanced surgical techniques, but is a minimally invasive surgery where small incisions are made. A camera (laparoscope) is used to guide the surgical repair throughout. Surgical mesh is then placed inside the abdominal wall to reinforce the weakened area.
This approach is effective for various types of hernias experienced by hernia patients.
Who is a good Candidate?
Most patients are prime candidates for a minimally surgically invasive hernia treatment , however open surgery may also be an option.
Patients who are good candidates for laparoscopic surgery most commonly suffer from ventral hernia, recurrent hernia, or groin hernia.
Your hernia surgeon will discuss all treatment options and determine which technique may be right for you, considering the specific type of hernia you may have.
Types of Hernias Treated with Laparoscopic Surgery
Hiatal Hernia
A stomach hernia causing reflux, treated with medication or surgery.
Inguinal Hernia
A groin hernia treated with laparoscopic or open surgery.
Umbilical Hernia
A belly button bulge repaired surgically.
Incisional Hernia
A surgical site hernia reinforced with advanced repair.
Femoral Hernia
A rare thigh-area hernia treated surgically.
Epigastric Hernia
A small upper-abdomen hernia repaired minimally invasively.
Spigelian Hernia
A deep abdominal hernia requiring precise surgical repair.
Sports Hernia
A groin injury treated with therapy or surgery.
Do I Qualify For
Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery?
- In-Person OR Video Call
- Appointments available this week
- Zero CO-Pay Consultation with PPO Insurance
Benefits of Laparoscopic Hernia Repair
Laparoscopic hernia repair offers smaller incisions, less pain, faster recovery, and a lower risk of wound infections post-operatively, in comparison to open surgery. Laparoscopic surgery allows for better visualization of the abdominal cavity, making it ideal for bilateral or recurrent hernias and reducing the likelihood of chronic pain.
Using this method, hernia patients can typically return to normal activities sooner due to these techniques that allow less tissue damage, muscle trauma and reduction of pain in the healing process. Experienced surgeons can use these minimally invasive techniques to ensure the patient can resume normal activities faster.
Risks and Considerations
Laparoscopic hernia repair carries risks such as injury to surrounding structures (intestines, blood vessels, or bladder), surgical mesh-related complications, recurrence, infection and anesthesia risks. Surgeons must also consider prior abdominal surgeries. Prior surgeries can contribute to a buildup of scar tissue, making the procedure more challenging.
The Procedure Process
Pre Procedure Requirements
Pre-procedure requirements are tailored to the individual patient and are determined by a pre-operative risk assessment by your surgeon. These may include laboratory tests, imaging, or obtaining medical clearances.
Before the Procedure
Before the surgery, avoid food and drink for at least 8 hours before surgery. Shower with antibacterial soap and avoid shaving the surgical site to reduce infection risk. Discuss current medications and post-operative medications including pain medication with your surgeon. You may need to stop certain medications or supplements prior to surgery. Arrange for post-operative surgical care including a ride home after the procedure. Finally, limit activities, as indicated in your post-operative treatment plan, during your recovery.
During the Procedure
The procedure begins with the initiation of anesthesia. In the operating room, the surgeon then makes incisions and repairs the hernia using suture and/or mesh. The incisions are then closed and the patient is woken up and monitored in recovery prior to discharge.
Post-Procedure
After your hernia surgery, recovery time varies according to which surgery you have had and other risk factors. Pain will be managed using a multi-modal approach to limit narcotic use after surgery. Activity restrictions apply and will be discussed with you before surgery. You will be provided information on what to monitor after surgery for signs of complications, including severe pain. Most recovery from hernia surgery is a gradual process. Light walking is encouraged. Keep the incisions clean and dry, and follow all discharge instructions. Attend your scheduled post-operative visit to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.
Do I Qualify For
Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery?
- In-Person OR Video Call
- Appointments available this week
- Zero CO-Pay Consultation with PPO Insurance
Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery Results
Expected Results
Most hernia patients experience a successful repair with reduced pain and improved strength in the affected area.
How Long to See Results
Recovery time varies—many can resume light activities within a few days and full normal activities in 4-6 weeks (longer for open surgery). While recurrence is rare, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding heavy lifting, and following post-op guidelines helps ensure long-term success.
Long-Term Maintenance
In order to maintain results and prevent hernia recurrence, we recommend maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in strengthening exercises after you are cleared by your surgeon, preventing constipation by eating a fiber-rich diet and staying hydrated, cessation of smoking, and carefully following your surgeon’s post-operative recovery plan.
Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery Los Angeles
For those seeking a hernia specialist or hernia treatment in Los Angeles, CA look no further than Torrance Hernia Center. Our team of highly-trained board-certified professionals provides exceptional care for all types of hernias, including umbilical hernia, ventral hernia, and hiatal hernia. Our surgeons have extensive experience with common types of hernias to complex hernias.
At Torrance, we offer various kinds of hernia repair surgery for our patients. Our surgeons are able to do open hernia repair, robotic hernia surgery as well as laparoscopic hernia repair as described in this blog post. From initial consultation to post-op, patients receive tailored treatment plans to ensure optimal outcomes.
At Torrance, our goal is for patients to return to normal activities and daily life quickly, with as minimal of a hospital stay as possible. We offer minimally invasive surgery options that result in less pain, small incisions, and faster recovery times.
Our facility serves the greater Los Angeles area, including patients from Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and throughout Southern California, providing the highest quality surgical care with advanced surgical techniques. Reach out today with an inquiry, we are happy to help you on your health journey!