Hernias have different names, depending on where they appear and what causes them. Common types include:
Hernias occur when there is a weakness in the muscles and tissues that normally hold organs in place. While the precise cause of this muscle weakness can vary, some common underlying causes include:
In addition to the underlying causes, several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing a hernia. Being aware of these factors can help you take preventive measures and seek timely treatment if necessary.
The primary symptom of a hernia is a soft bulge or protuberance somewhere around the abdomen. A bump in the groin or scrotum area, around the pubic bone, is a common sign of an inguinal hernia. The lump sometimes goes away when pushed or when the person lies down. If it doesn’t, the case may be more serious and may require immediate surgery.
People may experience pain or discomfort in the affected area, particularly when lifting, bending, or coughing. Hernia pain is somewhat common but not universal; often a bulge appears without any unwanted sensations. Signs of strangulation include nausea, vomiting, and the sudden onset of pain. Anyone who feels these symptoms should call a doctor and discuss their options.
Most hernias are nonemergent medical conditions. Although they never disappear on their own, they do not always cause serious problems. Minor, painless bulges may not need immediate treatment, so long as they do not worsen over time.
That being said, some complications can be dangerous. When the intestines get trapped inside a hernia, it’s called strangulation, and it could lead to loss of blood supply to the area. To prevent the possibility of strangulation, doctors recommend hernia surgery for most patients. The question usually isn’t if a patient needs surgery, but when. Some can wait. Others can’t.
Our board-certified surgeons tailor the approach to your hernia type, size, and medical history. Here is how the three main techniques compare.
Many ventral and incisional hernias can be repaired robotically using the da Vinci® Surgical System, which gives our surgeons greater range of motion and 3D visualization for accurate mesh placement and, when needed, component separation. Learn more about robotic surgery at Surgery Group LA.
Mesh reinforces the weakened abdominal wall and significantly lowers the chance a hernia comes back. We select the mesh, or a mesh-free repair, based on your hernia and tissue.
Durable polypropylene or polyester mesh used in most repairs for strong, long-lasting reinforcement.
Made from purified tissue and gradually absorbed by the body; useful in contaminated fields or for patients who prefer an absorbable option.
Combines a non-stick barrier with a reinforcing layer so the mesh can safely sit against abdominal organs in laparoscopic and robotic repairs.
Micro-grips hold the mesh in place with fewer sutures, which can reduce postoperative discomfort.
Mesh-free repair remains an option for small hernias or select patients, using a sutured tissue repair. Modern surgical mesh is rigorously regulated and, in the right repair, is both safe and highly effective. Our surgeons explain exactly which material they recommend for you and why.
Most patients go home the same day. Recovery depends on the hernia and the approach, but here is what a typical minimally invasive recovery looks like.
Rest at home, manage discomfort with prescribed or over-the-counter medication, and take short, gentle walks to encourage circulation.
Many desk-based patients return to work. Keep activity light and avoid lifting anything heavier than about 10 pounds.
Gradually resume daily activities and light exercise as comfort allows, following your surgeon's guidance.
Most patients return to full activity, including heavier lifting and strenuous exercise, after clearance at a follow-up visit.
Open and complex repairs may need more time. We provide personalized lifting restrictions, return-to-work timing, and pain-management guidance at every follow-up visit.
Our hernia care is led by board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons who teach, publish, and advance the field, not just practice it.
Our surgeons contribute to peer-reviewed surgical literature through the SGLA Research Foundation, helping shape best practices in minimally invasive and abdominal-wall surgery.
Procedures are performed by FACS surgeons affiliated with Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, one of the nation's leading academic medical centers.
Meet Dr. Joshua Ellenhorn and Dr. Jason Cohen, who bring decades of complex abdominal-wall and general-surgery experience to every repair.
Our practice is located at 8635 W 3rd St in the Cedars-Sinai Medical Office Towers, minutes from neighborhoods across the Westside and central Los Angeles. Call (310) 861-7493 to schedule a consultation.
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Laparoscopic surgery uses small incisions and a camera for minimal disruption, while open surgery involves a larger incision for direct access to the hernia.
Light activity may be possible within a week, but you should avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercises until fully healed.
While small, asymptomatic hernias may not require surgery, most hernias will eventually need repair to prevent complications.
Delaying treatment can lead to complications such as hernia enlargement, pain, or strangulation, which is a medical emergency.
Most minimally invasive hernia repairs take about 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the hernia's size and type and whether mesh and reconstruction are needed. Your surgeon will give you a specific estimate at your consultation.
Modern surgical mesh is rigorously regulated and, used in the right repair, is both safe and highly effective at preventing recurrence. We choose the mesh type, or a mesh-free repair, based on your hernia and tissue and explain the recommendation to you.
Recurrence is uncommon after a properly performed repair, especially when mesh is used to reinforce the abdominal wall. Following your activity and lifting guidelines during recovery further lowers the risk.
Our surgeons repair inguinal, ventral, umbilical, incisional, hiatal, epigastric, and femoral hernias, including complex and recurrent cases, using open, laparoscopic, and robotic techniques.
See a surgeon if you notice a new bulge, discomfort, or a hernia that is growing. Seek emergency care for sudden severe pain, nausea, or a bulge that turns firm and tender, which can signal strangulation.
More importantly, our team of world-renowned surgeons have saved countless lives, and have enabled countless more to live healthy, happy lives.
If you're experiencing hernia symptoms or have concerns about hernia risk, it's vital to consult a hernia specialist. Our team of experienced hernia surgeons is here to provide expert care and guidance, ensuring you receive the best treatment tailored to your needs.
