Hernia Surgery Highett
Personalised hernia surgery from a Highett-based general surgeon experienced in complex hernia procedures.
Understanding Hernias
Living with a hernia may be uncomfortable, frustrating, and sometimes worrying. What may begin as a small lump or mild discomfort in the groin or abdomen often becomes more noticeable over time, especially when lifting, coughing, or straining.
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 occurs when tissue or organs push through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, forming a noticeable bulge in areas such as the groin, navel, or an old surgical scar. Some people are born with a weakness in the muscle wall, while others develop a hernia later in life from strain caused by heavy lifting, persistent coughing, or bowel strain.
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 persistent pulling or dragging feeling
- A sense of heaviness or internal pressure
- An ongoing sense of discomfort in the area
- Visible or tender swelling
- Localised pain in the area of the hernia
- A sharp or pulling pain felt when lifting something heavy
- A warm or burning sensation around the hernia site
As hernias often grow larger and may lead to complications, surgical repair is generally advised to restore strength to the abdominal wall.
Types of Hernia
Three key types of hernias can occur in the abdominal wall:
Umbilical Hernia
What it is: An umbilical hernia occurs when tissue near the navel (belly button, or umbilicus) protrudes through the abdominal wall muscles.
Common symptoms: A noticeable lump, discomfort, or pressure around the belly button that worsens with coughing or physical effort.
Treatment options: While an umbilical hernia might start small, it can become dangerous if strangulation occurs. Surgical repair is the only method to correct it safely.
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: A feeling of pain or tightness in the groin, sometimes with a visible bulge that enlarges when coughing or standing, though in women it may appear only as pain or tenderness.
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: A bulge or tightness in the abdomen that increases with activity, coughing, or standing for long periods.
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 Highett, combining modern techniques with a caring, patient-first approach.
Following a referral, his approach typically includes:
- Initial consultation: Confirming diagnosis, identifying the hernia, and reviewing risks and benefits.
- Hernia repair surgery: Performed through either laparoscopic (keyhole) or open surgical methods.
- Recovery and follow-up: Assisting patients through recovery with clear instructions on returning to normal movement and physical exertion.
Among Highett’s surgical network, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam is recognised for his experience in complex hernia and abdominal wall reconstruction cases, making him a preferred referral choice.
Mesh and Your Hernia Repair
Today, most hernia surgeries involve the use of 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.
Mesh is tightly regulated in Australia by the TGA and supported by the ANZ Hernia Society. Though complications are rare, they may occur with both mesh and non-mesh repairs; however, mesh repairs generally have lower recurrence rates. Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam will discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and your individual circumstances so you can make an informed decision.
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.
Some of the key potential benefits of robotic hernia repair are:
- Less visible scarring and decreased pain during recovery
- Lower risk of wound complications and infection
- Shorter downtime before resuming normal activities and work
- More refined technique in reconstructing and reinforcing the abdominal wall
- Improved safety and predictable outcomes for recurrent or complex hernias
Robotic hernia repair with Dr Ariyaratnam is available at Knox Private Hospital and Epworth Freemasons, where each procedure is customised to suit the patient’s anatomy, surgical history, and lifestyle.
Ready to address your hernia and potentially eliminate your discomfort?
Your Hernia Surgery Highett 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 repair requires one incision directly over the hernia, while laparoscopic repair is performed through several small keyhole openings using a camera. Each approach repairs the hernia effectively, though laparoscopic surgery usually supports quicker recovery.
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?
Your recovery time varies depending on the type of hernia repair. Laparoscopic surgery is minimally invasive, allowing most patients to return home within a day. Gentle walking is encouraged soon after, though heavier activity should wait until your surgeon approves. Open hernia repair usually requires a longer recovery, often several weeks more. Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam will guide you on when it’s safe to resume normal routines.
What areas do you service?
Holmesglen Private Hospital is 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
With consulting rooms in multiple Victoria locations, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam offers flexibility so you can attend appointments at a location that suits you best.
Our Location near Highett
Book Your Hernia Consultation Today
If you’re experiencing a lump, discomfort, or other signs of a hernia, help is available nearby. Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam provides advanced hernia repair from several convenient locations across Victoria.
Book your appointment today and find out which hernia treatment approach may be right for you, so you may get back to living comfortably.