Open Hernia Repair Surgery Explained
Open hernia repair surgery is a traditional approach where a single incision is made directly over the hernia site to push the protruding tissue back and reinforce the area with sutures or mesh. It is often used for hernias that are not amenable to more minimally invasive surgery techniques and may have a longer recovery time with more pain compared to laparoscopic hernia repair.
This surgical procedure addresses various types of hernia ranging from umbilical hernia, epigastric hernia, inguinal hernia repair, and abdominal wall hernias, all depending on your surgical needs.
Who is a good Candidate?
There are a few treatment options available, some patients may benefit from robotic hernia repair, laparoscopic surgery with small incisions, or traditional open hernia repair surgery.
Your hernia surgeon will discuss all options and determine which technique may be right for you depending on your type of hernia (umbilical hernia, ventral hernia, femoral hernia, hiatal hernia, etc.)
Types of Hernias Treated with Open 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
Open Hernia Surgery?
- In-Person OR Video Call
- Appointments available this week
- Zero CO-Pay Consultation with PPO Insurance
Benefits of Open Hernia Repair Surgery
Open hernia repair surgery is a well-established technique that allows for direct visualization and precise repair of the hernia. It is often the best choice for larger, complex, or strangulated hernias. For groin area hernias, it may be the only option for patients who do not desire mesh. It can also be performed under local or regional anesthesia, therefore it may be the preferred option for patients who cannot tolerate the general anesthesia required for minimally invasive surgery.
This procedure can be performed by our board-certified experienced surgeons who have extensive experience with different types of hernia and hernia care.
Risks and Considerations
Open hernia repair surgery carries risks such as infection, bleeding, chronic pain, wound complications, and longer recovery times compared to minimally invasive techniques. It may also have a higher risk of recurrence if excessive tension is placed on the repair. It’s important to discuss these risks with your hernia surgeon when developing your treatment plan.
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 blood work and lab tests, certain imaging (ultrasound, CT scan, etc.), or obtaining medical clearances.
Before the Procedure
Before the surgery, avoid food and drink for at least 8 hours prior to 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 care including a ride home and any limitations of activity during your recovery.
During the Procedure
The surgical procedures begin with initiation of anesthesia. Once in the operating room, the surgeon makes incisions and repairs the hernia using suture and/or mesh. The incisions are then closed, 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 with information on what to monitor after surgery for signs of complications. 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
Open Hernia Surgery?
- In-Person OR Video Call
- Appointments available this week
- Zero CO-Pay Consultation with PPO Insurance
Open Hernia Surgery Results
Expected Results
Most patients experience a successful repair with less 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 normal activities in 4-6 weeks (longer for open surgery.) While recurrence is rare, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding heavy lifting, and following your post-op treatment plan helps ensure long-term success.
Patients who undergo minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopic hernia repair or robotic hernia repair) often return to normal activities sooner than those requiring open procedures.
Our goal is to get patients to resume normal activities and with less pain as soon as we can.
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 treatment plan.
Open Hernia Repair Los Angeles
For those seeking a hernia specialist or hernia treatment in Los Angeles, look no further than Torrance Hernia Center. Among our many services, we are proud to offer patients open hernia repair surgery. Our team of highly-trained board-certified professionals want to provide exceptional care to our patients.
From initial consultation to post-op, patients receive 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 and disruption to your every day.
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!