Hernia Surgery Hampton
Tailored hernia care with one of Hampton’s specialist general surgeons with interest in complex hernia cases.
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.
Although certain hernias may cause little more than mild discomfort, others can result in ongoing pain or serious complications when not addressed.
As a specialist general surgeon with interests and advanced knowledge in complex hernia repair, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam is a natural choice for complex hernia cases, revision work, and referrals from other surgeons.
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 sensation of heaviness or dragging in the affected area
- Noticeable pressure in the affected area
- A feeling of unease or soreness
- Swelling
- Tenderness or pain at the site of the lump
- Discomfort or aching brought on by heavy lifting
- A burning feeling in the affected area
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 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: 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: A groin hernia occurs when tissue pushes through the lower abdominal wall, extending from the lower abdomen into the groin area and sometimes toward the upper thigh. While the most common type is an inguinal hernia, women are also more likely to develop a femoral hernia (which is less common overall).
Common symptoms: A noticeable lump or pressure in the groin that may worsen when lifting or coughing. In some cases, especially in women, there may be pain without a visible bulge.
Treatment options: Observation may be suitable for a small, pain-free groin hernia, though symptoms often arise within one to two years. Surgical repair is typically advised, as it may help ease related issues such as bowel or urinary discomfort.
Ventral Hernia
What it is: A ventral hernia is a weakness in the abdominal wall where tissue pushes through. Types include incisional hernia (at a previous incision site), epigastric hernia (above the navel), and the less common spigelian hernia (between muscle layers).
Common symptoms: A noticeable lump or discomfort in the abdomen that worsens with coughing, lifting, or physical effort.
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 your referral has been submitted, the next steps in his process are:
- Initial consultation: A detailed examination to confirm the hernia and outline the pros and cons of different treatment approaches.
- 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.
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
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.
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:
- Less visible scarring and decreased pain during recovery
- Decreased risk of surgical site complications and infections
- Speedier return to everyday tasks and professional duties
- More refined technique in reconstructing and reinforcing the abdominal wall
- Reliable, high-quality results even in complex or previously repaired 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.
Ready to manage your hernia and move forward without ongoing discomfort?
Your Hernia Surgery Hampton 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?
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?
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
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
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam provides consultations at several Victoria locations, making it easier to find a clinic close to home.
Our Location near Hampton
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.
Take the first step toward relief. Schedule your appointment today to explore the best potential treatment options for your hernia.