Ventral Hernia
A ventral hernia occurs when tissue or intestine pushes through a weakened area in the abdominal wall. These hernias can develop spontaneously or at the site of a previous surgery (incisional hernia). Patients often notice a bulge in the abdomen, discomfort, pressure, or pain that worsens with activity, lifting, or straining.
Our board-certified surgeons specialize in advanced ventral hernia repair, offering open, laparoscopic, and robotic-assisted abdominal wall reconstruction to restore strength, relieve symptoms, and reduce recurrence.
Schedule Your Ventral Hernia Consultation
If you notice a bulge or discomfort in your abdomen,
Call our office today or request a consultation online to discuss your treatment options.
What Is a Ventral Hernia?
Ventral hernias occur along the front (anterior) abdominal wall and may include:
- Primary ventral hernias – develop without prior surgery
- Incisional hernias – occur at the site of a previous abdominal incision
- Epigastric hernias – located in the upper midline abdomen
Umbilical hernias – near the belly button
Common Symptoms
- Visible or palpable abdominal bulge
- Pain or discomfort with movement
- Feeling of pressure or heaviness
- Increasing size over time
Without treatment, ventral hernias can enlarge and increase the risk of incarceration or strangulation.
Who Can Benefit from Surgery?
- Patients with symptomatic or enlarging abdominal bulges
- Individuals experiencing activity limitations due to discomfort
- Patients at risk for complications
- Those with recurrent hernias
Early repair improves comfort and long-term outcomes.
How to Prepare for Ventral Hernia Surgery
Preparation typically includes:
- Physical examination and imaging (CT scan often recommended)
- Review of medical history and medications
- Smoking cessation guidance if applicable
- Weight optimization counseling when appropriate
- Preoperative fasting instructions
- Arranging post-operative support at home
Our team ensures you are fully prepared for safe and effective treatment.
Before the Procedure
- Arrive at the hospital or surgical center early for check-in
- Bring ID, insurance information, and medication list
- Meet your surgical and anesthesia teams
- Review your personalized surgical plan and recovery expectations
We prioritize patient safety and clear communication.
During the Procedure
Ventral hernia repair may be performed using:
- Open Repair – often used for large or complex hernias
- Laparoscopic Repair – minimally invasive approach with small incisions
- Robotic-Assisted Repair – enhanced precision for abdominal wall reconstruction
- Mesh reinforcement – typically used to strengthen the repair and reduce recurrence
Procedure duration varies depending on size and complexity, typically 1–3 hours.
Advanced abdominal wall reconstruction techniques improve durability and functional outcomes.
After the Procedure
Recovery depends on surgical complexity:
- Many minimally invasive repairs are outpatient or require a short hospital stay
- Mild to moderate abdominal soreness
- Gradual return to normal activity over several weeks
- Avoid heavy lifting until cleared by your surgeon
- Follow-up visits to monitor healing
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Fever or signs of infection
- Severe or worsening abdominal pain
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Redness, swelling, or drainage from the incision
Proper follow-up helps reduce recurrence and ensures optimal healing.
Risks & Benefits
Benefits
- Relief from abdominal bulging and discomfort
- Restoration of abdominal wall strength
- Prevention of incarceration or strangulation
- Minimally invasive options with faster recovery
- Durable repair with advanced mesh techniques
Risks
- Infection or bleeding
- Hernia recurrence
- Chronic discomfort at the repair site
- Rare mesh-related complications
- Risks associated with anesthesia
Your surgeon will review individualized risks and expected outcomes prior to surgery.
Patient Resources & Education
We provide:
- Pre- and post-operative care instructions
- Activity and lifting guidelines
- Weight management and smoking cessation resources
- Insurance and billing support
- Online patient forms
Our team is committed to supporting patients through every step of treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do ventral hernias go away on their own?
No. Ventral hernias do not resolve without surgery and may enlarge over time.
Is mesh always required?
Mesh reinforcement is commonly used to strengthen the abdominal wall and reduce recurrence risk. Your surgeon will determine the best approach for your condition.
How long is recovery after ventral hernia repair?
Recovery varies depending on hernia size and technique. Many patients return to light activity within 2–3 weeks.
Are minimally invasive techniques safe?
Yes. Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted repairs are safe and associated with less pain and faster recovery in appropriate candidates.
What happens if I delay surgery?
The hernia may enlarge and increase the risk of incarceration or strangulation, potentially requiring emergency surgery.
Schedule Your Ventral Hernia Evaluation
Restore abdominal strength and prevent complications with expert surgical care.