Surgery for Ventral Hernia and Incisional Hernia
Surgery for Ventral Hernia and Incisional Hernia
A ventral or incisional hernia can be painful and reduce your quality of life, putting you at risk of serious complications. Effective treatment often involves surgical repair. Here’s what you need to know about this procedure.
What is Ventral and Incisional Hernia Surgery?
A ventral hernia happens when tissue presses through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, usually at or near the midline. An incisional hernia is a type of ventral hernia that occurs at the site of a previous surgical incision, often months or even years after the original procedure.
Hernia repair surgery repositions the protruding tissue and closes the defect in the abdominal wall, often with the help of a surgical mesh to strengthen the area and reduce the risk of recurrence.
What are the types of Ventral and Incisional Hernia Surgery?
Open Hernia Repair
Surgeons make an incision over the hernia site or previous surgical scar, return the bulging tissue to its proper place, and close the defect. They place a mesh over or under the muscle layer for added strength.
Laparoscopic (Minimally Invasive) Repair
Using several small incisions and a camera, surgeons repair the hernia from inside the abdomen. This minimally invasive method reduces post-op pain and hospital stay, though it may not be offered for very large or complex hernias.
Robotic-Assisted Hernia Repair
Robotic surgery offers clear 3D visualisation, which is especially useful for complex or recurrent ventral hernias. Surgeons operate via robotic arms, which improve dexterity while maintaining the benefits of a minimally invasive approach.
When is Surgery for Ventral or Incisional Hernia recommended?
You may require surgery if you experience:
- A visible lump in the abdomen
- Pain or discomfort, especially when lifting or straining
- Digestive issues such as bloating or nausea
- A hernia that increases in size
Without surgical repair, hernias can grow and lead to:
- Obstruction of the intestine which become stuck in the hernia.
- Strangulation, where blood flow to the tissue is cut off. This becomes a surgical emergency.
Procedure for Ventral and Incisional Hernia Surgery
Before the Procedure
To plan your surgery, your doctor may recommend:
- Imaging tests like ultrasound or CT scans to assess hernia size and content
- A review of your medical history and medications
- Smoking cessation or weight management
They will also assess your fitness for anaesthesia and advise you on fasting and medication instructions before the procedure.
During the Procedure
Before surgery begins, your care team will administer general anaesthesia to make sure you remain comfortable throughout. Depending on the technique chosen, your surgeon will make either a single incision or several small keyhole incisions to access the hernia site.
They will gently reposition the protruding tissues back into the abdominal cavity and place a surgical mesh over or between the muscle layers to reinforce the repair.
Once the hernia is secured, the abdominal wall will be closed and sutured. The whole procedure will last between 1 to 3 hours, depending on the size, location, and complexity of the hernia.
After the Procedure
If you undergo open surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital for several days. In contrast, patients who have undergone minimally invasive procedures often return home within 24 to 48 hours.
Our care team will actively support your healing by managing your pain, monitoring the surgical site, and guiding you through each stage of recovery.
Risk Factors for Ventral and Incisional Hernia
Causes:
- Previous abdominal surgery is the primary cause of incisional hernias
- Obesity increases pressure on healing wounds
- Wound infections, which weaken tissue during recovery
- Chronic coughing or straining
Your hernia may come back if:
- The initial repair didn’t include mesh when needed
- You returned to physical activity too soon
- You have poor tissue quality or chronic health conditions
Cost of Ventral and Incisional Hernia Surgery
Here are the fee benchmarks for ventral and incisional hernia repair, according to the Ministry of Health (Singapore):
- Surgeon’s fee typically ranges from S$5,900 to S$9,000 (not inclusive of GST)
- Anaesthetist’s fee ranges from S$1,400 to S$2,300 (not inclusive of GST)
These figures reflect only the surgical fees. The final hospital bill will also depend on the following:
- Your choice of hospital
- Length of hospital stay and recovery needs
- Charges for diagnostic tests and other services
- Your insurance plan’s co-payment, deductible coverage, and claims limits
Procedures are Medisave-claimable, helping you cover part of the cost. Additional support may be available through your integrated shield plan or private insurance. For a cost estimate tailored to your situation, speak with your hospital’s financial counsellor or care team.
Ventral and Incisional Hernia Surgery FAQs
What's the difference between a ventral and incisional hernia?
A ventral hernia forms spontaneously through a natural weak spot in the abdominal wall. An incisional hernia develops at the site of a previous surgical incision.
Am I a good candidate for hernia repair?
Most people with symptomatic or growing hernias are suitable for surgery. Your surgeon will check your medical history and imaging to confirm suitability.
Will I need mesh, and is it safe to use?
Yes, mesh is often recommended to reinforce the repair, especially for larger hernias. It is generally safe and widely used.
How long does recovery take after surgery?
Most patients resume light activity within 2 to 3 weeks. Full recovery can take 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the method used and individual health factors.
Can a ventral and incisional hernia recur after repair?
Recurrence is uncommon when the mesh is used and post-operative care is followed correctly.
When can I resume normal activities or return to work?
You can usually return to desk work within 1–2 weeks, but you should avoid heavy lifting or vigorous activity for at least 6 weeks.
What signs of complications should I watch for?
- Fever
- Redness, swelling, or discharge at the wound
- Severe abdominal pain or nausea
- A bulge reappearing at the surgical site
Consult Our Hernia Repair Surgeons
Ventral and incisional hernias can affect your comfort, mobility and long-term health. If you suspect a hernia or have had one diagnosed, book a consultation with our experienced hernia surgeons to explore your surgical options.
Consult Our Doctors
Dr Jane Tan Jye Yng
Colorectal & General Surgeon
Dr Lim Khong Hee
Upper Gastrointestinal, Bariatric & General Surgeon
Cost & Financing
Nexus Surgical provides comprehensive financial services to ensure a seamless and pleasant experience.