Hernia Surgery Blackburn
Understanding Hernias
Living with a hernia can bring ongoing discomfort and concern. What might start as a small bulge or occasional ache in the groin or abdominal area may gradually worsen, particularly during activities such as lifting, coughing, or straining.
Some hernias may remain manageable for a time, but others can progress to cause persistent pain or, in severe cases, become life-threatening if ignored.
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 happens when abdominal contents push through the abdominal wall, often creating a lump or bulge in the groin area, belly button, or at the site of a previous incision. For some, hernias occur because of a natural weakness in the abdominal muscles and may be present at birth. For others, they develop over time due to strain from lifting heavy objects, chronic coughing, or difficulty with bowel movements.
Symptoms of Hernias
The symptoms of hernias may vary. Most hernias cause a lump that may be tender or lead to increased pain with activity or straining. Other signs include:
- A sensation of heaviness or dragging in the affected area
- Noticeable pressure in the affected area
- Mild to moderate pain or discomfort
- A noticeable bulge or puffiness
- Tenderness or pain at the site of the lump
- Pain that occurs when lifting heavy objects
- A feeling of heat or irritation in the affected area
Since hernias usually worsen with time and carry risks if left unaddressed, most surgeons recommend surgical repair.
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: Swelling or pain near the umbilicus, often becoming more obvious when standing, coughing, or lifting.
Treatment options: Even a small umbilical hernia can pose risks if left untreated, as strangulation may occur. Surgery remains the only permanent repair option.
Groin Hernia
What it is: Occurring when tissue breaks through the lower abdominal wall, a groin hernia can extend into the groin or upper thigh. Inguinal hernias are most common, though women are more prone to developing femoral hernias.
Common symptoms: Pain, pressure, and a bulge in the groin area that becomes more visible when coughing or straining. However, not all groin hernias cause a lump, and in women, they may present only with pain or discomfort.
Treatment options: If your groin hernia is not uncomfortable, you may be able to watch and wait to see how it progresses. Typically, a groin hernia becomes symptomatic after one to two years. At this point, doctors typically recommend hernia surgery as it may assist with reducing symptoms like constipation and urinary difficulties.
Ventral Hernia
What it is: A ventral hernia develops when tissue or intestine protrudes through a weak area of the abdominal wall. Common types include incisional (from a past surgery), epigastric (above the navel), and spigelian (between muscle layers).
Common symptoms: Swelling, pressure, or pain in the abdominal region, often more obvious during movement or when straining.
Treatment options: Small, symptom-free ventral hernias can often be watched over time, though surgery is usually suggested once pain or enlargement develops.
Hernia Surgery With Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam
Providing care to patients across Blackburn, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam applies his wide experience in open and laparoscopic hernia repair and his commitment to patient-centred treatment for optimal outcomes.
Once a referral is received, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam’s process involves:
- Initial consultation: Identifying the hernia, confirming the diagnosis, and explaining the benefits and possible risks of surgery.
- Hernia repair surgery: Using keyhole or open techniques.
- Recovery and follow-up: Providing advice and care on safe timelines for returning to physical activity after surgery.
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam is also recognised by other surgeons for his interest in complex hernia repair and abdominal wall reconstruction, making him a trusted choice for referrals across the Blackburn hernia community.
Mesh and Your Hernia Repair
Absorbable mesh is now widely used in hernia surgery to strengthen weak areas of the abdominal wall and minimise recurrence. While observation or non-mesh repairs may be suitable for very small hernias, mesh reinforcement is generally recommended for inguinal and ventral hernias.
In Australia, mesh use is closely regulated by the TGA and endorsed by the ANZ Hernia Society. While complications are uncommon, they can occur in both mesh and non-mesh repairs. Mesh repairs, however, tend to have a lower recurrence rate. Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam ensures patients understand all options by discussing potential benefits, risks, and personal factors.
Robotic Hernia Surgery
Robotic hernia repair combines advanced robotic systems with refined surgical skill, offering a new standard in minimally invasive surgery. With the da Vinci Xi platform, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam performs precise operations that minimise incisions and support faster recovery compared to open or conventional laparoscopic repairs.
This technique offers significant benefits for complex or recurrent hernias, including ventral, incisional, and inguinal cases. Enhanced 3D imaging, tremor control, and wrist-like instrument motion provide exceptional precision during intricate steps such as component separation and mesh placement.
Key potential advantages of robotic hernia surgery include:
- Smaller incisions leading to reduced pain following the procedure
- Decreased risk of surgical site complications and infections
- Quicker return to normal activity and work
- Greater accuracy during abdominal wall repair and reconstruction
- Improved safety and predictable outcomes for recurrent or complex hernias
At Knox Private Hospital and Epworth Freemasons, Dr Ariyaratnam performs robotic hernia repairs using a collaborative approach that considers individual anatomy, prior operations, and lifestyle factors.
Looking to treat your hernia and get back to feeling comfortable again?
Your Hernia Surgery Blackburn Questions Answered
Do all hernias need surgery?
A hernia won’t close or heal by itself, so surgical repair is typically recommended to avoid complications and recurrence. Many procedures include mesh reinforcement for added strength, and Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam will advise whether a mesh or non-mesh approach is most suitable for you.
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?
In open hernia repair, the surgeon makes a small cut over the hernia site, whereas laparoscopic repair is performed through several small incisions with the help of a camera. Both methods repair the hernia, though laparoscopic surgery typically offers a faster recovery time.
What is complex hernia surgery?
This type of procedure focuses on rebuilding the abdominal wall in cases of large or recurrent hernias. It typically includes repairing connective tissue, improving circulation, and strengthening the area with mesh reinforcement, such as an inguinal mesh plug.
How long is the recovery after hernia surgery?
Recovery time differs by procedure. With laparoscopic hernia repair, most people leave the hospital the same or the next day and can begin gentle walking soon after. Strenuous tasks should be delayed until cleared by the surgeon. Open repair tends to take longer to heal, but Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam will provide personalised advice for your recovery timeline.
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
With broad experience in both open and laparoscopic surgery, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam is skilled in complex hernia repair and abdominal wall reconstruction.
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
Consultations with Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam are available across multiple Victoria locations giving patients the convenience of choosing their preferred location.
Book Your Hernia Consultation Today
If you’ve noticed a lump, pain, or symptoms that suggest a hernia, treatment options are available close to home. Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam is a specialist in complex hernia repair and aims to offer lasting relief from multiple locations in Victoria.
Don’t let discomfort rule your life; book your appointment today to discuss the most appropriate treatment for your hernia.