Hernia Surgery Knox (Wantirna)
Understanding Hernias
A hernia can cause both physical discomfort and emotional frustration. It often starts as a minor swelling or slight pain in the groin or stomach area and tends to become more pronounced with exertion, coughing, or lifting.
In some instances, a hernia may seem like a small issue, but without treatment, it can develop into a source of lasting pain or dangerous complications.
With advanced experience in complex hernia repair, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam is often trusted by peers for intricate cases, revision procedures, and referrals.
Causes of Hernias
A hernia forms when internal tissue pushes through weakened abdominal muscles, creating a visible bulge around the groin, navel, or surgical scar. Some hernias are present from birth due to muscle weakness, while others develop later from ongoing strain, heavy lifting, or chronic coughing.
Symptoms of Hernias
Symptoms of a hernia can range in severity. Most people notice a lump that may feel sore or painful, especially during exertion. Other common signs include:
- A heavy or uncomfortable dragging sensation
- A feeling of pressure or fullness
- A feeling of unease or soreness
- Visible or tender swelling
- Localised pain in the area of the hernia
- A sharp or pulling pain felt when lifting something heavy
- A feeling of heat or irritation in the affected area
Hernias have a tendency to increase in size and may cause health issues, which is why hernia repair surgery is commonly recommended.
Types of Hernia
There are three main types of abdominal wall hernia:
Umbilical Hernia
What it is: An umbilical hernia forms when part of the intestine or fatty tissue bulges through a weak spot near the navel.
Common symptoms: A bulge and tenderness around the navel area, which may increase when coughing, bending, or straining.
Treatment options: Initially, an umbilical hernia may be small, but leaving it untreated carries the risk of strangulation, which requires immediate surgery. Regardless of its size, hernia surgery is the only way to repair an umbilical hernia.
Groin Hernia
What it is: This type of hernia happens when abdominal tissue bulges through a weak spot in the lower abdomen, often extending into the groin or upper thigh. The inguinal hernia is most common, while femoral hernias tend to occur more often in women.
Common symptoms: Discomfort, heaviness, or swelling in the groin area, which can increase with activity or strain. Some hernias, particularly in women, may cause pain even without a lump.
Treatment options: You may be able to monitor a painless groin hernia initially, but most become bothersome over time. When symptoms like pressure, constipation, or urinary issues develop, surgery is generally recommended.
Ventral Hernia
What it is: This type of hernia occurs when tissue pushes through weakened abdominal muscles, often near a surgical scar (incisional), above the belly button (epigastric), or between muscle layers (spigelian).
Common symptoms: Swelling, pressure, or pain in the abdominal region, often more obvious during movement or when straining.
Treatment options: If a ventral hernia causes no symptoms, monitoring it may be appropriate. Should it grow or become painful, surgical repair is generally recommended.
Hernia Surgery With Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam draws on his extensive background in open and laparoscopic hernia surgery to deliver personalised care for patients in Wantirna, combining modern techniques with a caring, patient-first approach.
Following a referral, his approach typically includes:
- Initial consultation: Identifying the hernia, confirming the diagnosis, and explaining the benefits and possible risks of surgery.
- Hernia repair surgery: Performed through either laparoscopic (keyhole) or open surgical methods.
- Recovery and follow-up: Supporting patients with guidance on when to resume strenuous activity or strenuous exercise after surgery.
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam is widely regarded by peers for his work in complex hernia repair and abdominal wall reconstruction, with many surgeons across Wantirna referring patients to his care.
Mesh and Your Hernia Repair
Today, most hernia surgeries involve the use of non-absorbable mesh, which helps reinforce the abdominal wall and prevent future recurrence. Although mild hernias can occasionally be managed without mesh, mesh repair is the standard method for inguinal and ventral types.
Under TGA regulation and with support from the ANZ Hernia Society, mesh use in Australia is carefully managed. While both mesh and non-mesh repairs can occasionally lead to complications, mesh repairs tend to have fewer recurrences. Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam will explain the risks, benefits, and factors specific to your case to help you make an informed choice.
Robotic Hernia Surgery
Robotic hernia surgery represents the latest advancement in minimally invasive techniques, merging robotic precision with the skill of an experienced hernia surgeon. Through the da Vinci Xi system, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam offers procedures with enhanced control, smaller cuts, and quicker recovery than traditional laparoscopic surgery. The next generation of hernia repair, robotic surgery, blends state-of-the-art robotic precision with the hands-on care of a hernia surgeon. Using the da Vinci Xi robotic platform, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam achieves high accuracy, minimal scarring, and a faster return to normal activity.
This approach is particularly beneficial for complex ventral, incisional, inguinal, and recurrent hernias, where meticulous dissection and tension-free closure are critical for long-term durability. The robotic system provides enhanced 3D vision, tremor filtration, and wrist-like instrument movement, enabling refined control during component separation or mesh placement.
Some of the key potential benefits of robotic hernia repair are:
- Smaller incisions leading to reduced pain following the procedure
- Fewer wound problems and a lower chance of postoperative infection
- Quicker return to normal activity and work
- Enhanced control and precision for complex abdominal wall procedures
- Safe and reproducible outcomes for complex or recurrent hernias
Dr Ariyaratnam offers robotic hernia repair at Knox Private Hospital and Epworth Freemasons, with a multidisciplinary approach tailored to each patient’s anatomy, previous surgery, and lifestyle needs.
Looking to treat your hernia and get back to feeling comfortable again?
Your Hernia Surgery Wantirna Questions Answered
Do all hernias need surgery?
Because hernias are unable to repair themselves naturally, surgery is usually required to prevent further enlargement or serious issues like strangulation. Mesh reinforcement is commonly used to support the area and minimise recurrence, and Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam will explain the best option for your specific needs.
own. This means that hernia surgery is recommended in an effort to prevent enlargement, complications, and the chance of developing a strangulated hernia. In many cases, mesh is used to reinforce the hernia repair and reduce the chances of it returning. Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam will discuss whether mesh or non-mesh repair may be most appropriate for your hernia.
What is the difference between open hernia repair and laparoscopic hernia repair?
Open hernia repair involves a small incision directly over the defect, while laparoscopic hernia repair uses tiny incisions and a camera inside the abdomen. Both aim to heal the hernia, but laparoscopic techniques often allow for a quicker recovery.
What is complex hernia surgery?
This refers to advanced reconstruction of the abdominal wall for very large or recurrent hernias. It often involves rebuilding connective tissue, restoring blood flow, and reinforcing the wall with mesh (such as an inguinal hernia mesh plug). Mesh, including absorbable and traditional options, is often a part of complex abdominal wall reconstruction.
How long is the recovery after hernia surgery?
This depends on the type of surgery you had. As laparoscopic hernia repair is a minimally invasive surgery, most patients go home the same day or the next day. After this, light walking is typically encouraged, but more strenuous activity should be avoided until cleared by your surgeon. Recovery from open hernia repair generally takes several weeks longer than laparoscopic techniques. Regardless of the type of surgery you had, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam will advise you on when you can return to your usual activities.
What areas do you service?
Knox Private Hospital and Forest Hill Medical and Dental Centre are easily accessible to patients in:
Why Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam?
Specialist in Complex Hernia Repair
Experienced in a wide range of surgical approaches, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam performs open and laparoscopic repairs as well as intricate abdominal wall reconstructions.
Rapid Access
Appointments are generally offered within a week of receiving your referral, supported by smooth communication between your GP and Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam’s team.
Convenient Access
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam provides consultations at several Victoria locations, making it easier to find a clinic close to home.
Book Your Hernia Consultation Today
Noticing a lump or discomfort that could be a hernia? Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam offers comprehensive hernia care from multiple Victoria locations, focusing on long-term results.
Take the first step toward relief. Schedule your appointment today to explore the best potential treatment options for your hernia.