Hernia Surgery Camberwell
Hernia repair, provided by a Camberwell general surgeon with a focus on complex cases.
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.
While some hernias cause only minor inconvenience, others have the potential to lead to chronic pain or even life-threatening complications if left untreated.
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam, a general surgeon with extensive knowledge in complex hernia repair, is frequently sought for revision surgeries and challenging hernia cases.
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
The signs of a hernia are not always the same for everyone. Typically, a hernia presents as a lump that may cause discomfort or worsen with physical activity. Other possible indications are:
- A persistent pulling or dragging feeling
- Noticeable pressure in the affected area
- A feeling of unease or soreness
- Swelling
- Localised pain in the area of the hernia
- Discomfort or aching brought on by heavy lifting
- 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
Abdominal wall hernias are generally grouped into three main types:
Umbilical Hernia
What it is: This type of hernia develops when tissue pushes through the abdominal wall around the belly button (umbilicus).
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: 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: 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: 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: A bulge or tightness in the abdomen that increases with activity, coughing, or standing for long periods.
Treatment options: For ventral hernias that aren’t uncomfortable, watching and waiting is typically considered safe. However, if the hernia becomes larger or causes pain, hernia surgery is 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 Camberwell, combining modern techniques with a caring, patient-first approach.
After receiving your referral, his process includes:
- Initial consultation: Identifying the hernia, confirming the diagnosis, and explaining the benefits and possible risks of surgery.
- Hernia repair surgery: Carried out with either open or laparoscopic approaches, depending on the hernia type.
- Recovery and follow-up: Offering tailored guidance on when and how to safely resume exercise or heavy activity post-surgery.
Among Camberwell’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
Non-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.
The use of surgical mesh is strictly regulated in Australia through the TGA and supported by the ANZ Hernia Society. Although rare, complications can happen in both mesh and non-mesh procedures. Mesh repairs typically offer reduced recurrence rates, and Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam will guide you through the pros, cons, and what best suits your situation.
Robotic Hernia Surgery
Robotic hernia surgery is the next evolution in minimally invasive hernia repair, combining the precision of advanced robotic technology with the expertise of a specialist hernia surgeon. Using the da Vinci Xi surgical platform, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam performs robotic procedures that allow greater accuracy, smaller incisions, and faster recovery compared with traditional open or standard laparoscopic repair.
Robotic surgery is particularly advantageous for difficult hernias, including ventral, incisional, inguinal, and recurrent types, where detailed dissection and tension-free closure are vital. The technology’s 3D imaging, tremor stabilisation, and articulated instruments offer superior precision for tasks like mesh positioning or tissue separation.
Key potential advantages of robotic hernia surgery include:
- Smaller scars and reduced postoperative pain
- Reduced likelihood of infection or wound-related issues
- Speedier return to everyday tasks and professional duties
- Greater accuracy during abdominal wall repair and reconstruction
- Reliable, high-quality results even in complex or previously repaired 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.
Are you ready to take the next step toward relieving your hernia-related discomfort?
Your Hernia Surgery Camberwell Questions Answered
Do all hernias need surgery?
Once a hernia forms, it can’t heal on its 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.
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?
Abdominal wall reconstruction is a complex surgical approach used for major or recurrent hernias. It may include restoring tissue layers, improving blood supply, and securing the repair with mesh, whether absorbable or permanent, for added durability.
How long is the recovery after hernia surgery?
The recovery process varies depending on whether your hernia repair was open or laparoscopic. Minimally invasive (laparoscopic) procedures usually allow same-day discharge and early light movement, while open repairs often need several more weeks of recovery. Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam will recommend when it may be safe to resume work and exercise.
What areas do you service?
Union Road Specialist Centre is easily accessible to patients in:
Why Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam?
Specialist in Complex Hernia Repair
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam has extensive experience in open and laparoscopic techniques, abdominal wall reconstruction, and complex hernia repair.
Rapid Access
Most referrals are processed quickly, with appointments usually available within one week and seamless coordination between your GP and the surgical team.
Convenient Access
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam consults across multiple locations in Victoria, allowing you to choose the location most convenient for you.
Our Location near Camberwell
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.
Don’t let discomfort rule your life; book your appointment today to discuss the most appropriate treatment for your hernia.