Hernia Surgery Hampton
Personalised hernia surgery from a Hampton-based general surgeon experienced in complex hernia procedures.
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.
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.
Known for his advanced understanding of complex hernia repair, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam is regularly referred patients by other surgeons for detailed assessment and surgical care.
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 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
- Pressure
- A feeling of unease or soreness
- Localised swelling around the affected area
- Pain where the lump is located
- Pain that occurs when lifting heavy objects
- A burning feeling in the affected area
Because hernias tend to enlarge over time and can cause serious complications, surgeons typically recommend hernia repair surgery.
Types of Hernia
Abdominal wall hernias are generally grouped into three main types:
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: An umbilical hernia may seem minor at first, but without treatment, it can lead to serious complications such as strangulation. Surgery is the definitive treatment.
Groin Hernia
What it is: A groin hernia forms when part of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through a weak area in the lower abdomen, sometimes reaching the groin or thigh. Inguinal hernias are the most frequent, whereas femoral hernias are rarer but more common 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: For groin hernias that cause little to no discomfort, monitoring the condition may be appropriate at first. However, most hernias become symptomatic within a year or two, at which stage surgery is often advised in an effort to relieve symptoms such as constipation or urinary strain.
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: Pain, pressure, and a visible bulge in the abdominal area that becomes more prominent when coughing or 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 Hampton, 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: 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 Hampton hernia community.
Mesh and Your Hernia Repair
In modern hernia repair, absorbable mesh is commonly used to support the abdominal wall and lower the risk of recurrence. Smaller hernias with few symptoms may be managed conservatively, but mesh repair remains the preferred approach for most 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 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 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:
- Smaller incisions leading to reduced pain following the procedure
- Lower risk of wound complications and infection
- Speedier return to everyday tasks and professional duties
- Improved precision in abdominal wall reconstruction
- Consistent and reliable results in challenging or repeat hernia cases
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.
Ready to address your hernia and potentially eliminate your discomfort?
Your Hernia Surgery Hampton Questions Answered
Do all hernias need surgery?
Hernias do not resolve without treatment, which is why surgery is generally advised to stop them from worsening or causing complications such as strangulation. Often, mesh is used to strengthen the repair and lower the risk of recurrence. Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam will guide you on whether mesh or non-mesh repair best suits your case.
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?
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?
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?
Holmesglen Private Hospital is easily accessible to patients in:
Why Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam?
Specialist in Complex Hernia Repair
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam brings a wealth of experience in open and keyhole hernia repair, including complex cases and advanced abdominal wall reconstruction.
Rapid Access
Most patients are seen within one week of referral, with streamlined GP and specialist communication.
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 Hampton
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.
Don’t let discomfort rule your life; book your appointment today to discuss the most appropriate treatment for your hernia.