Hernia Surgery in Melbourne
Hernia surgery involves repairing weaknesses or defects in the abdominal wall through which tissue or organs may protrude. Our surgeons treat a broad range of hernia types, including inguinal, umbilical, incisional, and ventral hernias, using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques wherever clinically appropriate.
Our FRACS-qualified hernia surgeons include Dr Chek Tog, Dr Ben Keong, Dr Ernest Lim, and Dr Jasmina Kevric, all with extensive experience in hernia repair across Melbourne. Each patient receives a personalised treatment plan developed in collaboration with our experienced Allied Health team.
We have clinics in Essendon and Bundoora, serving patients across Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs.
Call us today at (03) 9466 7338 to book a consultation.
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Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 5 PM
We are located in the heart of Essendon and Bundoora.
When to see a hernia surgeon
If you are experiencing any of the following, a consultation with one of our hernia surgeons may be appropriate:
- A visible bulge or lump in the groin, navel, or abdomen that may disappear when lying flat
- Aching, pressure, or discomfort at the site of the bulge, particularly when bending, coughing, or lifting
- A bulge or swelling at or near the site of a previous abdominal surgical scar
- A feeling of weakness or heaviness in the groin or abdomen
- Sudden, severe pain at a hernia site, which may indicate strangulation (a surgical emergency requiring immediate attention)
- A known hernia that is growing in size or becoming more symptomatic
- Nausea or vomiting associated with abdominal swelling
- A hernia that was previously managed conservatively and is now causing significant discomfort
A GP referral is required to book your initial consultation. If you are unsure whether surgery is the right next step, our surgeons will review your full history and recommend the most appropriate course of action, which may or may not involve an operation.
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(03) 9466 7338Our hernia surgery procedures
Incisional hernia
An incisional hernia occurs at the site of a previous abdominal surgical incision, where the abdominal wall has weakened over time. Tissue or bowel can push through this defect, causing a noticeable bulge and discomfort.
Repair typically involves reinforcing the weakened area with a surgical mesh. Depending on the size and location of the hernia, a laparoscopic (keyhole) or open approach will be recommended. Most patients return to light activity within 2-4 weeks.
Inguinal hernia
Inguinal hernias are the most common type of hernia, occurring when tissue, such as part of the intestine, pushes through a weak spot in the groin muscles. They can develop on one or both sides of the groin and are more prevalent in men.
Laparoscopic repair is preferred in most cases, offering smaller incisions, reduced post-operative pain, and a faster return to normal activities compared to open surgery. Surgical mesh is used to reinforce the repair.
Umbilical hernia
An umbilical hernia occurs when fatty tissue or part of the intestine pushes through a weakness near the navel. While umbilical hernias are common in infants and often resolve without treatment, adult umbilical hernias typically require surgical repair to prevent complications.
Repair is usually performed laparoscopically or through a small incision near the navel, with mesh reinforcement in most cases. Recovery is generally straightforward, with most patients returning to desk-based work within 1-2 weeks.
Ventral hernia
A ventral hernia is a protrusion through the front (anterior) wall of the abdomen, outside of the groin or navel. This includes epigastric hernias, which occur between the navel and the breastbone. They can develop spontaneously or due to increased abdominal pressure.
Depending on the size and complexity of the hernia, repair may be performed laparoscopically or as open surgery, with mesh reinforcement to reduce the risk of recurrence. The most suitable approach will be discussed with you during your consultation.
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(03) 9466 7338Your hernia surgery journey
Understanding what to expect at each stage helps reduce uncertainty and lets you feel fully prepared. Here is what hernia surgery typically looks like at Specialist Surgical Group.
1. GP referral
Your GP has referred you to us. A standard referral is valid for 12 months and entitles you to a Medicare rebate on your consultation fee.
If you need help finding a GP in your area, we can assist.
2. Initial consultation
You will meet with one of our surgeons to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any relevant imaging or test results. We will explain your diagnosis and treatment options, answer your questions, and begin forming a personalised plan.
In some cases, additional investigations such as an ultrasound or CT scan may be requested before a recommendation is made.
3. Pre-operative assessment
Before surgery, you will complete blood tests, imaging, and any required specialist assessments. This ensures you are medically prepared and that the surgical plan is tailored to your individual needs.
If you are taking other regular medications, we will advise you on any adjustments required before the procedure.
4. Procedure day
Surgical procedures are performed at an accredited Melbourne hospital. Most patients are admitted on the morning of surgery.
The length of your hospital stay will depend on the procedure and your individual circumstances, ranging from a day procedure for straightforward laparoscopic repairs to one or two nights for more complex cases.
5. Post-operative recovery
We will provide clear guidance on your post-operative activity levels, wound care, dietary adjustments where relevant, and what to look out for during recovery.
Most patients who undergo laparoscopic hernia repair return to light activity within 1-2 weeks and to more physical work within 4-6 weeks.
6. Results and follow-up
Your care continues beyond surgery. We schedule follow-up appointments at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months, with ongoing access to our care team for as long as you need support.
If you experience any concerns during recovery, please contact our clinic directly.
Meet our hernia surgeons
Our surgeons are FRACS-qualified with advanced training in laparoscopic and general surgery. Together, they have performed thousands of hernia procedures across Melbourne.
Why choose us
Our difference lies in combining highly experienced surgeons with the latest minimally invasive techniques and individualised care that puts you first.
Experienced hernia surgeon
Our surgical team includes four Fellows of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons with subspecialty training in laparoscopic and general surgery.
They have collectively performed thousands of hernia procedures across Melbourne, with a consistent focus on minimising recurrence risk and patient-centred outcomes.
Minimally invasive techniques
Wherever clinically appropriate, we use laparoscopic (keyhole) approaches that result in smaller incisions, less post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays, and a faster return to daily activities compared to traditional open surgery.
This approach is used for the majority of inguinal, umbilical, incisional, and ventral hernia repairs performed at our clinics.
Coordinated, personalised care
From your first consultation through to your final follow-up, we provide clear communication, coordinated care, and personalised support at every step.
We work alongside our dedicated nursing and Allied Health team to ensure that every aspect of your recovery is thoroughly managed.
Our reputation speaks volumes
I’ve had a complex medical history due to a fall at work, and out of all of the specialists I’ve seen, he is definitely one of, if not, the best!
Thanks to Dr Tog, I have been able to stop medication I’ve been on for years, I can now eat a dessert on a night out (if I choose to) and my family and I don’t live in fear of me waking in the middle of the night choking on what I’d eaten and/or being unable to breathe because of it. It’s also fantastic to not be hoarse for a couple of days after an episode or aspirating food/acid into my lungs from all of the above. The surgery has been life changing.
I highly recommend Dr Chek Tog to anyone who may require Upper GI advice and/ or surgery.
The icing on the cake for me, is that the reception staff at both his Essendon and Unihill/ Bundoora clinics were amazing. They were some of the most welcoming receptionists I’ve experienced and incredibly helpful- making what could have been a traumatic experience (consultations, dealing with WorkCover, surgery bookings etc.)- a very positive one.
I wish to thank all involved in my recent GI surgical journey (June 26) for their care and professionalism. If I could give 10 stars I would.
There is 2 hour street parking just around the corner in Bridge road.
I always know that when I walk through the door, no matter who I’m seeing, I’m in excellent hands.
I would also like to acknowledge the reception staff, Jenn, Fab, Ros, and Jacqui who consistently demonstrated efficiency, courtesy, and a genuinely empathetic approach.
A wonderful team providing high-quality care in a supportive and friendly environment. Highly recommended.
He has been a godsend. Thank you all x
The surgery went perfectly, and I’ve had a smooth, complication-free recovery. Dr Tog’s professionalism, warmth, and attention to detail have been exceptional. I truly appreciate the care and support I’ve received and couldn’t recommend him highly enough to anyone considering weight-loss surgery.
I would highly recommend the Specialist Surgical Group and the wonderful staff both at Uni Hill and Essendon
The reception staff were also very helpful, I dealt with Jacqui more but both staff members are very friendly and supportive. They managed appointments efficiently and followed up with us regularly, which we truly appreciated.
My husband’s wound has healed exceptionally well and we have experienced no issues at all. We are very satisfied with the professional care provided to us by Chek Tog and his team. We highly recommended.
Now 4 months post-op, I’m feeling great and the operation has been a complete success.
I highly recommend Mr. Tog.
From the very beginning, Dr Tog took the time to explain everything in clear detail, providing both reassurance and confidence at every step. His professionalism, integrity, and calm manner immediately put me at ease. He genuinely cares about his patients, and unlike some past experiences I have had elsewhere, he goes above and beyond to ensure you are fully informed and comfortable before proceeding. If there were any concerns or potential issues, he made it clear he would point them out honestly before taking the next step. That kind of transparency builds trust, and it gave me the peace of mind I needed going into such a significant procedure.
I also want to acknowledge his outstanding team. The reception staff, Jacqui and Ros, deserve special mention for their friendliness, professionalism, and excellent communication. Their clear instructions, timely emails, and helpful phone calls leading up to the surgery made the whole process run smoothly and stress-free. Nothing was ever too much trouble, even when extra steps were required with paperwork, payment and coordination.
Dr Tog also works with a highly skilled anaesthetist and surgical team, and together they delivered an excellent experience from start to finish. I felt completely supported throughout, and I am very grateful for the level of care provided.
Overall, this has been a truly positive experience and I would not hesitate to recommend Dr Chek Heng Tog to anyone facing surgery, no matter how complex. His professionalism, compassion, and patient-first approach are 10/10. I am very thankful for his expertise, the smooth recovery so far, and the outstanding support from his team. This is the kind of surgeon and team that gives patients full confidence they are in the best hands possible.
Book a consultation today
(03) 9466 7338Hernia surgery FAQ
A GP referral is required to book an initial consultation. A standard referral is valid for 12 months and entitles you to a Medicare rebate on your consultation fee. If you need assistance finding a GP, please contact our clinic, and we can help.
Yes. Laparoscopic (keyhole) hernia repair is the preferred approach for most inguinal, umbilical, incisional, and ventral hernias at Specialist Surgical Group. It involves smaller incisions, less post-operative pain, and a faster recovery compared to open surgery. However, some complex or recurrent hernias may require an open approach. We will discuss the most appropriate technique for your specific situation during your consultation.
Not all hernias require immediate surgery. Small, asymptomatic hernias in certain locations may be monitored conservatively. However, hernias generally do not resolve on their own and tend to enlarge over time. If left untreated, a hernia can become incarcerated (unable to be pushed back) or strangulated (where the blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off), which is a surgical emergency. We will advise you on the risks and appropriate timing of intervention at your consultation.
Recovery times vary depending on the type and complexity of the hernia repair, as well as whether a laparoscopic or open approach was used. Most patients who undergo laparoscopic repair of an inguinal or umbilical hernia can return to light activities within 1-2 weeks. Recovery from incisional or ventral hernia repair may take 2-6 weeks, depending on the size of the defect. We will provide a personalised recovery plan at your pre-operative appointment.
Hernia recurrence is possible, but is significantly reduced when surgical mesh is used to reinforce the repair. Factors that can increase recurrence risk include obesity, smoking, heavy physical activity too soon after surgery, and wound infection. Our surgeons use mesh reinforcement in most hernia repairs and will provide you with clear guidance on post-operative activity restrictions to support the best possible outcome. Recurrent hernias can also be treated surgically, and we have experience managing complex revision cases.
Located in Essendon & Bundoora
Keilor Road Specialist and Wellness Centre
163 Keilor Road, Essendon, VIC 3040
Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 5 PM
patient@specialistsurgicalgroup.com.au
(03) 9466 7338
UniHill Specialist Centre
Suite 32, 240 Plenty Road, Bundoora, VIC 3083
Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 5 PM
patient@specialistsurgicalgroup.com.au
(03) 9466 7338
Medical disclaimer
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations, and does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Individual circumstances vary significantly, and nothing on this page should be used as a substitute for personalised advice from a qualified medical professional.
If you have concerns about your health, please seek medical attention promptly. To discuss your specific condition and treatment options with our team, please book a consultation by calling us at (03) 9466 7338.