Correction of Umbilical Hernia

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Specialized care to restore abdominal integrity

Specialized care to restore abdominal integrity. The umbilical hernia is one of the most common situations treated in general surgery, affecting both children and adults, and is characterized by a bulge near the navel where internal tissue protrudes to the outside.

How is this procedure performed? 

Under general or local anesthesia, the surgeon makes an incision at the site of the hernia. The protruding tissue is repositioned and the weakened area of the abdominal wall is reinforced with sutures or with a mesh implant. Depending on the patient's condition, minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques may also be used. Recovery involves specific guidelines to ensure optimal healing. 

Why is this procedure important? 

Umbilical hernia repair is crucial to prevent complications such as incarceration or strangulation of the herniated tissue. It provides long-term relief from discomfort and restores the natural appearance and function of the abdomen.     

About the condition

What is an umbilical hernia?

It is characterized by a bulge near the navel, resulting from a weak spot in the abdominal wall where internal tissue, usually fat or an intestinal loop, protrudes to the outside. At Aeger Prima, in Lisbon, we offer evaluation and surgical correction of this condition, with the goal of eliminating discomfort, preventing complications and restoring the normality of the abdominal wall.

Although many umbilical hernias are initially painless and barely noticeable, they tend to increase in size over time, especially in situations of physical exertion, persistent cough, obesity or pregnancy.
It does not resolve on its own

Surgery is, in most cases, the only effective way to definitively correct the problem, since the abdominal wall defect does not resolve spontaneously in adults.

The procedure

How is the procedure performed?

The surgery can be performed under general or local anesthesia, depending on the patient's characteristics and the size of the hernia. The surgeon makes an incision near the navel, carefully repositions the herniated tissue to its anatomical location, and proceeds to reinforce the abdominal wall through direct suture or the placement of a surgical mesh, when the defect is larger.

In certain cases, a minimally invasive laparoscopic technique can be used, which allows for smaller incisions, less post-operative discomfort, and faster recovery. The choice of technique is always individualized, taking into account the prior clinical evaluation.
2 techniques

Direct suture or mesh placement, depending on the size

Open or laparoscopic

Individualized approach to each case

Because it is important

Benefits of umbilical hernia correction

Prevention of complications

Avoids serious outcomes, such as strangulation of the herniated tissue.

Aesthetic result

Improves the appearance of the abdominal region.

Greater comfort

Relieves symptoms such as pain or feeling of pressure near the navel.

Long-lasting results

Strengthens the abdominal wall, reducing the risk of recurrence.

Clinical assessment

What is evaluated during the procedure?

01

Dimension and complexity of the hernia

Determines the most appropriate surgical approach to the case.

02

Tissue viability

Ensures that the repositioned tissue remains healthy.

03

Need for reinforcement

Decides between simple suture or mesh placement, depending on the size of the hernia.

04

Recovery monitoring

Ensures adequate post-operative care for effective scarring.

Post-operative

Post-operative recovery

After surgery, it is usual to feel some local discomfort, controlled with simple painkillers. Most patients resume light activities within one to two weeks, and should avoid intense physical efforts, weight lifting and abdominal exercise for four to six weeks, or as indicated by specific medical indication. 

Post-operative follow-up consultation allows confirming the good evolution of healing and clarifying any doubts of the patient.
1–2 weeks

Return to light activities

4–6 weeks

Avoid intense physical effort

Frequent questions

Frequent questions

What is an umbilical hernia?

It is the result of a weakness in the abdominal wall near the navel, which allows a part of the internal tissue to protrude outward, forming a visible bulge, more evident in situations of effort.

Is umbilical hernia surgery painful?

The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so there is no pain during surgery. In the postoperative period, some local sensitivity is normal, controlled with medication and decreasing progressively in the first days.

How long does recovery take?

In most cases, the initial recovery takes between one to two weeks, and it is possible to resume light activities during this period, avoiding intense physical effort for four to six weeks.

Is it always necessary to put a surgical mesh?

No. The decision depends on the size of the hernia. Small hernias can be corrected with just a suture, while larger hernias generally benefit from the placement of a reinforcing mesh.

Can the hernia come back after surgery?

There is always a residual risk of relapse, but this is significantly reduced with proper repair and compliance with postoperative recommendations.

When should I seek emergency medical help?

Whenever the bulge becomes hard, very painful, ceases to be reducible or nausea, vomiting or local skin color change appear, as they may indicate incarceration or strangulation of the hernia, requiring urgent evaluation.

What is evaluated during the procedure?

01.

Size and complexity of the hernia:

Determine the best approach for repair.

02.

Tissue viability:

Ensure the health of tissues during the procedure.

03.

Reinforcement needs:

Decide between sutures or mesh based on the size of the hernia.

04.

Recovery monitoring:

Provide post-operative care to support healing.

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