Hernia Surgery Newport
Hernia repair, provided by a Newport general surgeon with a focus on complex cases.
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.
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
Hernia symptoms can vary from person to person. In many cases, a noticeable lump appears that can be tender or become more painful when lifting or straining. Additional symptoms may include:
- A ‘dragging’ feeling
- A sense of heaviness or internal pressure
- A feeling of unease or soreness
- Visible or tender swelling
- Pain where the lump is located
- Discomfort or aching brought on by heavy lifting
- A feeling of heat or irritation in the affected area
Hernias have a tendency to increase in size and may cause health issues, which is why hernia repair surgery is commonly recommended.
Types of Hernia
Abdominal wall hernias are generally grouped into three main types:
Umbilical Hernia
What it is: Occurring near the belly button, an umbilical hernia happens when tissue or intestine breaks through the abdominal wall.
Common symptoms: Pain, pressure, and a visible bulge in or near the navel that becomes more prominent when coughing or straining.
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: 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 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: Observation may be suitable for small, painless ventral hernias, but surgery is advised if the hernia increases in size or begins to cause discomfort.
Hernia Surgery With Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam
Providing care to patients across Newport, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam applies his wide experience in open and laparoscopic hernia repair and his commitment to patient-centred treatment for optimal outcomes.
Once a referral is received, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam’s process involves:
- 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: 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 Newport 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.
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.
The main potential benefits of robotic hernia surgery include:
- Smaller scars and reduced postoperative pain
- Decreased risk of surgical site complications and infections
- Quicker return to normal activity and work
- More refined technique in reconstructing and reinforcing the abdominal wall
- Safe and reproducible outcomes for complex or recurrent hernias
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.
Looking to treat your hernia and get back to feeling comfortable again?
Your Hernia Surgery Newport 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?
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 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?
Williamstown Specialist Centre 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
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam provides consultations at several Victoria locations, making it easier to find a clinic close to home.
Our Location near Newport
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 hernia pain or discomfort affect your daily life; arrange a consultation today to discuss your treatment options.