How Long Does Recovery From Robotic Surgery Take?
Planning surgery and wondering what your recovery will look like? With robotic surgery, the process could be much shorter and easier than you may think. Keep reading to learn more.
When To Consider Hernia Repair Surgery
A hernia occurs when internal tissues or organs push through a weak spot in your abdominal muscle or connective tissue wall. Most hernias start small, feel like a soft bump, and may cause mild discomfort. But hernias don’t heal on their own, and they can get worse over time.
Some hernias don’t cause bothersome symptoms, while others cause pain or pose a risk of incarceration (when the herniated tissue gets stuck) or strangulation (when its blood supply is cut off).
Hernia repair surgery aims to return the displaced tissue to its normal location and reinforce the weakened wall, so your risk of complications and hernia recurrence is lower.
Elvira Klause, MD, FACS, and our surgical team specialize in laparoscopic hernia repair in Laguna Hills, California. Here’s how to decide if it’s time to consider hernia repair surgery.
You have a symptomatic hernia that affects your daily life
If your hernia causes pain, a dragging sensation, pressure when you lift, cough, or bend, or limits your willingness to move or exercise, repair becomes a practical choice. These symptoms signal that things aren’t working like they should, and delaying treatment may lead to worsening discomfort or restrictions in activity.
Your hernia is getting worse over time
A hernia that grows larger or becomes more difficult to reduce (i.e., you can no longer push it back in) often means that the issue is worsening. As the hernia opening widens, more tissue may protrude and your risks escalate.
Elective repair before the hernia gets too large often leads to better outcomes and fewer complications.
Your hernia shows signs of incarceration or strangulation
Hernia incarceration and strangulation are medical emergencies. Incarceration happens when the herniated tissue gets trapped and won’t go back into your abdomen, and strangulation means its blood supply is compromised.
Redness, intense pain, vomiting, abdominal tenderness, or inability to pass gas or stool are red flags of incarceration and strangulation. Emergency surgery is necessary in these cases to prevent tissue necrosis or life-threatening complications.
Special circumstances and patient risks
Even if your symptoms are mild, there are certain scenarios in which we may recommend proactive surgical repair.
For example, it can be a good idea for women with groin hernias to have repair because diagnosing femoral versus inguinal hernia types can be tricky, and femoral hernias carry a higher risk of complications.
Hernias in people who plan to get pregnant, those in professions requiring heavy lifting, or those with more complex conditions may also benefit from earlier intervention.
Weighing the risks and benefits of hernia surgery
No surgery is without risk, so consider the pros and cons before you choose hernia repair. Dr. Klause and our team are here to help you consider factors including your health history and your diagnosis, so you can make a more informed decision.
If you have a smaller hernia, you may be a good candidate for laparoscopic or robotic repair, often resulting in quicker return to activity than open surgery. Many patients can resume light movement within days, though full recovery (avoiding heavy lifting) may take several weeks.
A larger or more complex hernia might require open or hybrid surgical techniques. Any preexisting health conditions may also affect both your surgical risk and recovery, and should be weighed carefully.
Modern techniques and mesh placement aim to reduce chances of hernia returning, but a small risk remains. Chronic pain or nerve irritation also occasionally persists after surgery, underscoring the importance of surgical expertise and careful technique.
Why early, elective repair can lead to better outcomes
When you choose elective (planned) hernia repair before complications arise, you generally have more surgical options, less tissue damage, and a smoother recovery.
Repairing a hernia before it gets incarcerated or strangulated usually translates into fewer emergency operations, reduced risk of bowel complications, and better overall patient experience.
Not every hernia requires immediate surgery, but when symptoms begin to appear, consider your options. Timely, elective surgery often offers the best balance of safety, comfort, and long-term success.
If you’re weighing whether it’s time to repair your hernia, book an appointment with Dr. Klause online or call us at 949-245-6910.
You Might Also Enjoy...
How Does Radiation Therapy Treat Cancer?
Hearing the word “cancer” stops you in your tracks. In that moment, every question floods in: What happens next, how treatment works, and what recovery looks like. Radiation therapy is often a vital part of the answer.
What to Expect During and After Your Breast Biopsy
Finding out that you need a breast biopsy can be scary, but it’s an important step toward clarity and appropriate care. Knowing what the procedure involves and what happens afterward can help you feel more prepared and less anxious.
Do Gallstones Go Away on Their Own?
Crossing your fingers and hoping gallstones will pass naturally? You could be setting yourself up for more pain. Discover why they often linger and worsen, and learn about the treatments that can bring relief here.
What is Breast Conservation Surgery?
Breast conservation surgery — also known as a lumpectomy — can be a good treatment option for many women with early-stage breast cancer. Find out how this effective procedure removes cancer as it preserves healthy breast tissue.
5 Foods That Help Prevent Hemorrhoid Pain
Hemorrhoids flaring up? The foods you eat could be the key to soothing the burn and stopping the strain. Discover five powerful pantry picks that can help ease pain, enhance digestion, and keep things moving.