What is a hernia?
A hernia is a bulge of tissue, often fat or bowel, through a weak point in the muscle wall of the abdomen. The main types are:
- Inguinal – in the groin, the most common type
- Umbilical and para-umbilical – at or near the belly button
- Epigastric – in the upper abdomen, above the belly button
- Incisional – through the scar of a previous operation
- Femoral – at the top of the thigh, more common in women
Typical signs are a lump that may disappear when you lie down, and discomfort when you lift, cough or strain. Hernias do not heal on their own, and repair is usually recommended for hernias that cause symptoms.
When it is urgent
Go to an emergency department straight away if a hernia becomes painful, tender or firm, cannot be pushed back, or comes with vomiting. These can be signs of a trapped (strangulated) hernia, which needs emergency surgery.
How the operation is done
Hernias are repaired either through a cut over the hernia (open repair) or by keyhole surgery (laparoscopic repair) through small incisions. In most adult repairs a synthetic mesh is used to reinforce the abdominal wall and lower the chance of the hernia coming back.
Depending on the type of hernia and your health, the operation is done under general, regional or local anaesthetic, and usually takes 30–90 minutes. Your surgeon will recommend the best approach for you.
Recovery
- Most patients go home the same day or the next morning
- Walk from the first day to help recovery
- Light activities and desk work are usually possible after 1–2 weeks
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for about 4–6 weeks, or as your surgeon advises
- Drive only when you can make an emergency stop without pain
Risks
Hernia repair is a common and safe operation. Possible problems include pain and bruising, a collection of fluid under the wound (seroma), wound infection and, in a small number of patients, the hernia coming back or long-lasting groin pain. Your surgeon will discuss the risks with you.
Hernias in children
Hernias in babies and children are treated by our paediatric surgeons. Paediatric surgery at TSC →
Frequently asked questions
Will a mesh be used?
In most adult hernia repairs, yes: a mesh lowers the risk of the hernia coming back. Your surgeon will explain if a repair without mesh suits you better.
Open or keyhole repair – which is better?
Both are effective. Keyhole repair can mean less pain and a quicker return to activity, especially for hernias on both sides or that have come back; open repair can be done under local anaesthetic. The choice depends on the hernia and your health.
How long will I be off work?
Usually 1–2 weeks for desk work and longer, often 4–6 weeks, for heavy manual work.
Is hernia repair covered by GESY?
Yes, with a referral from your personal doctor. Private patients can book directly, and we settle directly with affiliated insurance companies.
GESY, insurance and payment
We are part of GESY, the national health system. GESY patients need a referral from their personal doctor; private patients can book directly. We settle directly with affiliated insurance companies, and accept cash, card or bank transfer. More on insurance and payment.
Doctors
- Dr. Christodoulou Anastasios
- Dr. Kolia Katerina
- Dr. Lazarou Vasiliki
- Dr. Stavrou Stavros
Book an appointment
Call 22 445555 (24/7) or use the appointment request form and we will call you back.
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