Hernia surgery
Umbilical hernia – when is surgery needed and when is mesh used?
An umbilical hernia is a defect in the abdominal wall at the navel. Symptoms, size, growth and any coexisting rectus diastasis guide treatment.
Short answer
A small asymptomatic hernia may sometimes be observed. Pain, growth or limitations in daily life support surgical assessment. Mesh reinforcement reduces recurrence in many adult repairs, but the method is individual.
Symptoms and assessment
The hernia often appears as a bulge that becomes more visible during coughing or straining. The surgeon assesses defect size, reducibility, skin and the entire midline.
- Bulge at the navel
- Pain during activity
- Gradual enlargement
- Coexisting rectus diastasis
Suture or mesh?
Some small defects can be sutured. Guidelines emphasise that mesh reduces recurrence for many symptomatic adult umbilical and epigastric hernias. Technique and mesh position depend on anatomy and risk.
Urgent symptoms
Seek urgent care if the hernia suddenly becomes hard, very painful and cannot be reduced, particularly with nausea, vomiting or abdominal distension.
Next step
Have your symptoms assessed by a specialist surgeon
No referral needed. Short lead times to assessment and treatment in Karlstad, Sweden.
Frequently asked questions
Is mesh always required?
No. The decision depends on defect size, tissue, diastasis and recurrence risk.
Can I exercise?
Many people can remain active according to symptoms, but painful loading should be assessed.
Can hernia and diastasis be repaired together?
Yes, selected patients benefit from a combined abdominal wall plan.
Sources
This text is patient information and does not replace an individual medical assessment.