Umbilical Hernia Surgery in Melbourne
An umbilical hernia develops at or near the navel, where a weakness in the umbilical ring allows abdominal tissue or bowel to push through the abdominal wall. In adults, umbilical hernias do not resolve without surgical repair and tend to enlarge over time, increasing the risk of pain, incarceration, and strangulation. Risk factors include obesity, multiple pregnancies, chronic straining, and conditions that raise intra-abdominal pressure, such as ascites [1].
At Specialist Surgical Group, our Melbourne-based general surgeons treat umbilical hernias in adults using both suture and mesh repair techniques. The approach is selected based on hernia size, tissue quality, and patient factors, aiming to achieve a durable, low-recurrence repair and a good cosmetic result. More information about our hernia surgery services is available here.
We consult from our Essendon and Bundoora clinics, with procedures performed at accredited hospitals in Melbourne.
Call us today at (03) 9466 7338 to book a consultation.
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Is umbilical hernia surgery for you?
Surgery is generally recommended for adults with an umbilical hernia because, unlike in infants, spontaneous resolution does not occur, and the hernia will typically enlarge over time. Repair is appropriate for patients who:
- Have a symptomatic hernia causing pain, aching, or a visible bulge at the navel that interferes with daily activities, exercise, or clothing comfort
- Have a hernia that has grown in size or previously become temporarily trapped (incarcerated)
- Are concerned about the cosmetic appearance of the bulge or its progressive worsening
- Are fit for general anaesthesia and surgery, with comorbidities adequately managed prior to the procedure
For patients with significant medical comorbidities where operative risk is high, watchful waiting may be considered for small, asymptomatic hernias. Patients planning future pregnancies should discuss the timing of repair with their surgeon, as pregnancy can place strain on the repair and increase the risk of recurrence [2].
Potential benefits
- Permanent resolution of the hernia and associated symptoms. Surgical repair eliminates the visible bulge and any associated pain, allowing patients to return to unrestricted physical activity. Most patients report significant improvement in comfort and confidence following repair [3].
- Prevention of serious complications. Without repair, umbilical hernias carry a cumulative risk of incarceration and strangulation, both of which require emergency surgery and carry a considerably higher complication rate than elective repair [1].
- Low recurrence with mesh repair. For hernias larger than 1-2 cm, mesh reinforcement substantially reduces recurrence. Studies report recurrence rates of 3-5% at 5 years with mesh repair compared with approximately 11% for suture-only repair [4].
- Excellent cosmetic outcomes. The repair incision is placed within or immediately around the navel, resulting in a scar that is largely concealed by the natural contour of the umbilicus and fades significantly over 12-18 months [3].
- Short recovery and return to normal activities. Day surgery with a straightforward recovery means most patients return to desk-based work within 1-2 weeks and full activity within 4-6 weeks [2].
Potential risks
- Seroma formation. Fluid accumulation beneath the skin around the repair site is the most common complication, particularly after mesh repair of larger defects. Most seromas resolve spontaneously within 6-8 weeks without intervention [4].
- Wound infection. Superficial wound infections are uncommon and typically respond well to antibiotic treatment. Deep infection around the mesh is rare but may require additional procedures in severe cases. Risk is higher in patients with obesity or diabetes [2].
- Hernia recurrence. Recurrence remains possible despite repair, particularly with suture-only techniques for larger defects, in patients with obesity, or those with conditions causing chronically elevated intra-abdominal pressure, such as chronic cough or constipation [4].
- Chronic pain or altered sensation. A small proportion of patients experience persistent discomfort or numbness around the repair site. This is less common with umbilical hernia repair than with groin hernia repairs and typically improves over time [3].
- Cosmetic dissatisfaction. While most patients are satisfied with cosmetic outcomes, some minor variation in navel shape or appearance may occur, particularly with very large hernias where significant tissue rearrangement is required [3].
- General surgical risks. Bleeding, wound-healing problems, and adverse reactions to anaesthesia apply to all surgical procedures and are minimised through careful pre-operative assessment and in accredited hospital facilities [1].
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(03) 9466 7338Meet our hernia surgeons
Your umbilical hernia surgery journey
The following steps provide a brief overview of your umbilical hernia repair journey. Individual experiences will vary based on your specific health circumstances.
1. Initial consultation
Your surgeon will review your symptoms, the duration and progression of the hernia, and any relevant medical history, including previous abdominal surgery, pregnancies, or weight changes. Physical examination will assess the hernia size, reducibility, and the quality of surrounding tissue.
Ultrasound may be arranged for larger or clinically uncertain hernias to confirm the defect size and hernia contents before planning repair.
Any comorbidities affecting healing, such as obesity or diabetes, will be discussed and optimised before surgery is scheduled.
2. Pre-operative preparation
You will receive written instructions covering fasting requirements (nothing to eat for 6 hours before surgery, clear fluids permitted until 2 hours prior), medication adjustments, and skin preparation. Your anaesthetist will complete a pre-operative assessment before your admission.
Most umbilical hernia repairs are planned as day surgery. You will need a responsible adult to drive you home and remain with you for the first 24 hours following the procedure.
3. The surgical procedure
Umbilical hernia repair is performed under general anaesthesia at an accredited Melbourne hospital, typically taking 30-45 minutes for straightforward repairs.
A curved incision is made within or just below the navel, positioned to be largely concealed by the natural crease of the umbilicus. The hernia sac is carefully dissected free from the overlying skin and the umbilical stalk. Hernia contents are reduced back into the abdomen, and the fascial defect is repaired using one of the following approaches:
- Open mesh repair. For defects larger than 1-2 cm, a synthetic mesh is placed either as an onlay over the fascial repair or in the preperitoneal position beneath the fascia, thereby substantially reducing the risk of recurrence. The umbilicus is carefully preserved and reshaped to maintain a natural appearance where possible.
- Suture repair. For small defects measuring 1-2 cm or less, the fascial edges are closed directly with permanent sutures using an overlapping technique. Simple and effective for minor defects in patients with good tissue quality.
4. Hospital recovery and discharge
Most patients are discharged 2-3 hours after surgery once fully alert and comfortable. Mild to moderate pain around the navel is expected in the first few days and is well controlled with regular paracetamol and anti-inflammatory medications.
Minor swelling or bruising around the navel is normal and settles within 1-2 weeks. Written discharge instructions covering wound care, activity restrictions, and pain management are provided before you leave, along with a scheduled follow-up appointment.
5. Activity progression at home
Light daily activities and short walks can resume within a few days. Desk-based work is typically possible within 1-2 weeks. Heavy lifting (greater than 5 kg) and strenuous exercise are restricted for 4-6 weeks to allow the repair to consolidate.
Driving is not recommended until you can perform an emergency stop comfortably without pain, typically within 1-2 weeks of surgery.
6. Follow-up
A follow-up appointment is scheduled at 2-3 weeks to check wound healing, assess for seroma formation, and address any concerns.
Most patients achieve full recovery within 4-6 weeks. Any new swelling, redness, wound discharge, or return of the original bulge should be reported promptly for assessment.
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(03) 9466 7338Umbilical hernia surgery FAQ
Total costs include the surgeon’s fee, anaesthetist’s fee, and hospital facility charges. Medicare provides a rebate toward the surgical fee when the repair is performed for a clinically appropriate indication [5].
With private health insurance, out-of-pocket costs for a straightforward umbilical hernia repair typically range from $500 to $2,000, depending on your fund, policy level, and hospital. Your specific out-of-pocket estimate will be provided before surgery is scheduled. We recommend contacting your health fund prior to your consultation to confirm your cover and any applicable waiting periods.
Umbilical hernia repair is listed on the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) and attracts a rebate when performed for a clinically appropriate indication. Both suture and mesh repair are covered under relevant MBS items.
Private health insurance typically covers hospital admission and anaesthesia costs, subject to your policy level and any applicable waiting periods [5]. Patients without private cover may access the procedure through the public hospital system, though waiting times apply.
Not necessarily. Very small hernias (under 1-2 cm) can often be repaired with sutures alone. For hernias larger than 1-2 cm, mesh reinforcement is strongly recommended to reduce recurrence. Studies show recurrence rates of approximately 11% at 5 years for suture repair compared with 3-5% for mesh repair in defects of this size [4]. Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate technique based on the defect size, tissue quality, and your individual circumstances.
This requires individual discussion with your surgeon. Pregnancy significantly increases intra-abdominal pressure and can place strain on a hernia repair, increasing recurrence risk. Many surgeons recommend completing your family before proceeding with elective repair where the hernia is not causing significant symptoms or complications. Where the hernia is symptomatic, enlarging, or at risk of incarceration, earlier repair may be advisable. Your surgeon will help you weigh the timing options based on your specific situation [2].
In most cases, yes. The incision is placed within the natural crease of the navel or in the skin immediately below it, and the umbilicus is carefully preserved and reshaped during closure. The resulting scar typically fades significantly over 12-18 months and blends with the natural contour of the navel. Minor variations in umbilical shape may occur with larger hernias, but significant cosmetic problems are uncommon [3].
Most patients return to desk-based work within 1-2 weeks and resume full physical activity by 4-6 weeks. Heavy lifting is restricted for the same period to allow mesh incorporation. The recovery from umbilical hernia repair is generally shorter and less demanding than recovery from larger or more complex procedures, such as incisional hernia repair.
Recurrence rates depend on the repair technique and hernia size. With mesh repair, recurrence is reported at 3-5% at 5 years. Suture-only repair carries a higher recurrence risk, particularly for hernias larger than 1-2 cm [4]. Factors that increase the risk of recurrence include obesity, chronic cough, constipation, and any condition that chronically elevates intra-abdominal pressure. Maintaining a healthy body weight after repair is one of the most effective ways to reduce this risk.
An umbilical hernia occurs specifically at the navel. Inguinal hernias occur in the groin and are the most common type of hernia. Incisional hernias develop at the site of a previous surgical scar. Ventral hernias are a broader term referring to hernias through the front abdominal wall at locations other than the navel or a prior incision, such as epigastric or spigelian hernias. Each type has a distinct anatomy and requires a repair approach suited to its location and size.
Unlike in children, adult umbilical hernias do not resolve spontaneously and will typically enlarge over time [1]. The main risk of leaving an umbilical hernia untreated is incarceration, in which hernia contents become trapped and cannot be reduced, or strangulation, in which the blood supply to trapped tissue is cut off. Both are emergencies requiring urgent surgery and carry substantially higher complication rates than planned elective repair. Small, asymptomatic hernias may be observed in patients with high surgical risk, but this decision should be made with your surgeon.
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.
References
[1] Muysoms FE, Miserez M, Berrevoet F, et al. Classification of primary and incisional abdominal wall hernias. Hernia. 2009;13(4):407-414. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10029-009-0518-x
[2] Kulacoglu H. Current options in umbilical hernia repair in adult patients. Ulus Cerrahi Derg. 2015;31(3):157-161. https://doi.org/10.5152/UCD.2015.2955
[3] Christoffersen MW, Helgstrand F, Rosenberg J, Kehlet H, Strandfelt P, Bisgaard T. Long-term recurrence and chronic pain after repair for small umbilical or epigastric hernias. J Am Coll Surg. 2015;221(3):731-738. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jamcollsurg.2015.04.013
[4] Arroyo A, García P, Pérez F, Andreu J, Candela F, Calpena R. Randomized clinical trial comparing suture and mesh repair of umbilical hernia in adults. Br J Surg. 2001;88(10):1321-1323. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.0007-1323.2001.01893.x
[5] Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) Online. Accessed April 2026. https://www.mbsonline.gov.au