Umbilical hernia repair
Specialized care to restore abdominal integrity. An umbilical hernia is one of the most common conditions treated in general surgery, affecting both children and adults, and is characterized by a bulge near the belly button where internal tissue protrudes.
What is an umbilical hernia?
It is characterized by a bulge near the belly button, resulting from an area of weakness in the abdominal wall through which internal tissue — usually fat or a loop of intestine — protrudes. At Aeger Prima, in Lisbon, we offer assessment and surgical correction of this condition, aiming to eliminate discomfort, prevent complications and restore the normal state of the abdominal wall.
While many umbilical hernias are initially painless and barely noticeable, they tend to increase in size over time, especially with physical strain, persistent coughing, obesity or pregnancy.
In most cases, surgery is the only effective way to permanently correct the problem, since the abdominal wall defect does not resolve spontaneously in adults.
How is the procedure performed?
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 umbilical region, carefully repositions the herniated tissue in its anatomical location, and reinforces the abdominal wall with direct suturing or the placement of surgical mesh, when the defect is larger.
In certain cases, a minimally invasive laparoscopic technique may be used, allowing for smaller incisions, less post-operative discomfort, and a faster recovery. The choice of technique is always individualized, based on the prior clinical assessment.
Benefits of umbilical hernia repair
Surgical correction is essential to prevent potentially serious complications, such as incarceration or strangulation, situations that may require urgent surgery.
Prevention of complications
Avoids serious outcomes, such as strangulation of the herniated tissue.
Aesthetic result
Improves the appearance of the abdominal area.
Greater comfort
Relieves symptoms such as pain or a sense of pressure near the belly button.
Lasting results
Reinforces the abdominal wall, reducing the risk of recurrence.
What is assessed during the procedure?
Size and complexity of the hernia
Determines the most appropriate surgical approach for the case.
Tissue viability
Ensures the repositioned tissue remains healthy.
Need for reinforcement
Determines whether simple suturing or mesh placement is needed, depending on the size of the hernia.
Recovery follow-up
Ensures appropriate post-operative care for effective healing.
Post-operative recovery
After surgery, some local discomfort is common, usually controlled with simple painkillers. Most patients resume light activities within one to two weeks, and should avoid intense physical effort, lifting weights and abdominal exercise for four to six weeks, or as specifically advised by the doctor.
Post-operative follow-up appointments confirm that healing is progressing well and allow the surgeon to address any questions from the patient.
Frequently asked questions
What is an umbilical hernia?+
It results from a weakness in the abdominal wall near the belly button, allowing part of the internal tissue to protrude, forming a visible bulge that becomes more noticeable during strain.
Is umbilical hernia surgery painful?+
The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so there is no pain during surgery. After surgery, some local sensitivity is normal, controlled with medication and gradually decreasing over the first few days.
How long does recovery take?+
In most cases, initial recovery takes one to two weeks, during which light activities can be resumed, while intense physical effort should be avoided for four to six weeks.
Is surgical mesh always required?+
No. The decision depends on the size of the hernia. Small hernias can be repaired with sutures alone, while larger hernias generally benefit from a reinforcing mesh.
Can the hernia come back after surgery?+
There is always some residual risk of recurrence, but it is significantly reduced with proper repair and adherence to post-operative recommendations.
When should I seek urgent medical help?+
Whenever the bulge becomes hard, very painful, stops being reducible, or is accompanied by nausea, vomiting or a change in local skin color, as these may indicate incarceration or strangulation of the hernia, requiring urgent assessment.
Book your general surgery appointment
If you notice a bulge near your belly button, or already have a diagnosis of umbilical hernia, our team will answer all your questions and recommend the best approach for your case.
