Hernia Surgery Woodend
Personalised hernia surgery from a Woodend-based general surgeon experienced in complex hernia procedures.
Understanding Hernias
For many people, a hernia begins as a subtle lump or pressure in the groin or abdomen. Still, it can progress to ongoing discomfort or concern, especially when lifting heavy objects, coughing, or straining.
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.
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
When part of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through a weak point in the abdominal wall, it results in a hernia, often appearing as a lump in the groin, belly button, or near a previous incision. This may be due to a congenital weakness or develop gradually from pressure caused by lifting, coughing, or constipation.
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
- A noticeable bulge or puffiness
- Discomfort or aching around the bulge
- Pain that occurs when lifting heavy objects
- A noticeable burning or tingling sensation near the lump
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: Occurring near the belly button, an umbilical hernia happens when tissue or intestine breaks through the abdominal wall.
Common symptoms: A noticeable lump, discomfort, or pressure around the belly button that worsens with coughing or physical effort.
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 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: 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: 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 forms through a weak point in the abdominal wall, typically appearing as an incisional, epigastric, or spigelian hernia depending on its location.
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
As a general surgeon with extensive experience in both open and laparoscopic hernia repair, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam provides tailored care for patients in Woodend. He combines advanced laparoscopic techniques with a patient-centred philosophy to aim for the best outcomes.
Once a referral is received, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam’s process involves:
- Initial consultation: Confirming diagnosis, identifying the hernia, and reviewing risks and benefits.
- 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.
Respected within the surgical community, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam is known for his focus on complex hernia repair and abdominal wall reconstruction, earning frequent referrals from colleagues across Woodend.
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.
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.
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:
- Minimal scarring and less discomfort after surgery
- Decreased risk of surgical site complications and infections
- Quicker return to normal activity and work
- Improved precision in abdominal wall reconstruction
- Safe and reproducible outcomes for complex or recurrent hernias
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 Woodend 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?
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?
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
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 Woodend
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.