Hernia Surgery Melton South
Personalised hernia surgery from a Melton South-based general surgeon experienced in complex hernia procedures.
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.
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 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 sensation of heaviness or dragging in the affected area
- A feeling of pressure or fullness
- An ongoing sense of discomfort in the area
- A noticeable bulge or puffiness
- Tenderness or pain at the site of the lump
- A sharp or pulling pain felt when lifting something heavy
- A burning feeling in the affected area
Since hernias usually worsen with time and carry risks if left unaddressed, most surgeons recommend surgical repair.
Types of Hernia
Surgeons commonly classify abdominal wall hernias into three primary categories:
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: 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: 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: Discomfort, heaviness, or swelling in the groin area, which can increase with activity or strain. Some hernias, particularly in women, may cause pain even without a lump.
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: 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: Pain, pressure, and a visible bulge in the abdominal area that becomes more prominent when coughing or straining.
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
Providing care to patients across Melton South, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam applies his wide experience in open and laparoscopic hernia repair and his commitment to patient-centred treatment for optimal outcomes.
After receiving your referral, his process includes:
- Initial consultation: Assessing your condition, confirming the hernia type, and discussing potential risks and treatment options.
- Hernia repair surgery: Conducted using minimally invasive keyhole surgery or traditional open repair.
- Recovery and follow-up: Supporting patients with guidance on when to resume strenuous activity or strenuous exercise 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 Melton South 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 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.
Robotic hernia surgery offers several important potential advantages, including:
- Minimal scarring and less discomfort after surgery
- Reduced likelihood of infection or wound-related issues
- Speedier return to everyday tasks and professional duties
- Greater accuracy during abdominal wall repair and reconstruction
- Consistent and reliable results in challenging or repeat hernia cases
Dr Ariyaratnam provides robotic hernia surgery at both Knox Private Hospital and Epworth Freemasons, combining multidisciplinary care with personalised planning based on each patient’s body, history, and lifestyle.
Ready to manage your hernia and move forward without ongoing discomfort?
Your Hernia Surgery Melton South 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?
An open hernia repair is done through a single incision above the hernia, while laparoscopic repair involves small keyhole incisions and a camera for internal viewing. Both restore the abdominal wall, but laparoscopic surgery can enable a speedier return to normal activity.
What is complex hernia surgery?
This describes a highly advanced repair for large or recurrent hernias, where the abdominal wall is rebuilt through restoration of tissue and blood flow, supported by mesh reinforcement such as an inguinal mesh plug or other absorbable materials.
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?
Vimeyard Specialist Centre is easily accessible to patients in:
Why Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam?
Specialist in Complex Hernia Repair
Experienced in a wide range of surgical approaches, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam performs open and laparoscopic repairs as well as intricate abdominal wall reconstructions.
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 Melton South
Book Your Hernia Consultation Today
If you suspect a hernia due to pain, swelling, or a visible lump, you can access expert care close to home. Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam provides complex hernia repair services throughout Victoria.
Don’t let discomfort rule your life; book your appointment today to discuss the most appropriate treatment for your hernia.