Hernia Surgery London | Hernia Repair UK Clinic Cost & Prices

Cosmetic Surgery
Body Surgery
Hernia Repair Surgery

Medically Reviewed November 2023, by Mr. Bryan Mayou (GMC: 1414396) - founder of the Cadogan Clinic and one of the world's leading plastic surgeons

What is Hernia Repair Surgery?

A hernia occurs when an internal part of the body, usually the intestine or bowel is able to push through a weakness in the muscle wall or surrounding tissue. This causes a lump to appear which may be uncomfortable and can also cause a loss in confidence for many patients as they struggle to find clothes they feel happy wearing.

Hernia Repair is the only solution for this uncomfortable condition. There are two types of hernia surgery our surgeons perform at Cadogan Clinic. Open surgery involves your surgeon making an incision in the abdomen in order to push the hernia back into its original position, before stitches and/or special surgical mesh are positioned to keep it in place. Alternatively, the surgeon may use keyhole surgery (laparoscopy) involving several small incisions and the use of fine surgical instruments. This method is less invasive and has a faster recovery time. Your surgeon will decide which is the best approach for you, depending on the position and symptoms of your hernia.

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Why do people have Hernia Repair?

Hernias can be caused by a number of factors including heavy lifting, pregnancy, chronic coughing, or a history of abdominal surgeries. These can all cause the weakening of the muscles and tissues in the abdominal area, making it more likely that a hernia will develop.

Many patients find that having a hernia can cause pain, digestive discomfort, or a loss in confidence as they don’t feel comfortable wearing certain clothes or taking part in activities such as swimming. Hernia Repair surgery can resolve these concerns and allow people to return to normal day to day activities.

Who is suitable for Hernia Repair?

To ensure you are suitable for Hernia surgery, your surgeon will examine you and discuss your concerns in a one-to-one bespoke consultation at our award-winning clinic. They will ask you about how the hernia occurred, how long you have had it and any problems it is causing you. This will help them to build your surgical plan and decide on the right approach to surgery for you.

They will also assess your general physical and mental health to make sure you are fit and well for a general anaesthetic and take photos for your medical record.

Words from our clients:

"I was extremely satisfied with the care and treatment I received at the Cadogan Clinic. My surgeon was friendly and informative and explained the procedure fully. My procedure went very well and with the excellent care of the nursing staff, I made a speedy and full recovery. Would recommend to anyone."

Eva Berry

"At the beginning before the operation the nurse taking care of me made me feel so comfortable. The surgeon and anesthetist helped me feel so calm. Fantastic before and after treatment"

Scarlett Elliott

"The girls on the reception at the clinic were very pleasant and professional. The nurse who took out my stitches after my surgery was just lovely and took me through step by step what she was doing and she also recommended a great cream to use to help with healing."

Georgina Nolan

“I was treated with care and provided with thorough knowledge about the procedure I was undertaking. My surgeon was very methodical (a perfectionist) and I felt I received A class treatment."

Courtney O'Sullivan

"Outstanding experience from the first appointment to being discharged. Very professional, friendly and a fantastic outcome."

Gemma Stevenson

"Reception staff very welcoming and efficient. Both nurses who I dealt with were fantastic, and the whole team (anaesthetist, surgeon etc) were friendly but professional, and really put my mind at ease. That I was able to stay later than I perhaps needed after my surgery to fit in with my husbands schedule was greatly appreciated."

Emma Davies

The Cost of Hernia Repair Surgery

Cadogan Clinic offers comprehensive Hernia Repair packages including 0% finance.

Cadogan Clinic has collaborated with Chrysalis Finance to offer a variety of payment choices for our patients including:

6 months 0% Interest-free - APR

12 - 60 months at 14.9% APR

Flexible Finance

Get in touch with our specialist surgical advisors to discuss Hernia Repair pricing and finance options.

Get in Touch 0207 901 8500

Included in this treatment

Up to two 60 minute consultations with a leading specialist plastic surgeon at our award-winning premises in Chelsea

Your procedure carried out at London’s leading specialist cosmetic surgery centre of excellence

24/7 on call nurse assistance

Dedicated Patient Co-ordinator, as a personal point of contact through your journey with Cadogan

A pre-operative medical assessment to ensure you are fit for surgery

Comprehensive post-operative aftercare courtesy of our specialist cosmetic nurses

What is involved in Hernia Repair Surgery?

There are two types of Hernia Repair Surgery our consultant surgeons perform at Cadogan Clinic - open surgery and keyhole surgery.

Open surgery is the more invasive option for Hernia Repair. This procedure involves your surgeon making an incision in the affected area before the hernia is pushed back inside the body. Stitches or a synthetic mesh are then used to strengthen the abdominal wall and hold everything in place.

Keyhole surgery, also known as Laparoscopy, is the other option for treating hernias. Laparoscopy is less invasive than open surgery and allows the surgeon to see inside the abdomen and pelvis without having to make large cuts through the skin. A small incision, measuring up to 1.5cm, is made in the abdomen. A tube is then inserted, and carbon dioxide gas is pumped into the abdomen, which lifts the wall of the abdomen to give the surgeon a clear view of the internal organs and the muscle weaknesses. The laparoscope, a small camera, with a light attached is then inserted through this tube. The pictures from the camera are displayed on a monitor so the surgeon can have a good view of what is going on inside the body.

Laparoscopic hernia repair can be divided into two types - Transabdominal Preperitoneal (TAPP) and Totally Extraperitoneal (TEP). TAPP involves surgical instruments being inserted through the muscle in the abdominal wall and the lining which covers the organs, called the peritoneum. The surgeon lifts a flap of the peritoneum to cover the hernia and a piece of surgical mesh is used to strengthen the weakened area in the abdominal wall. TEP is a newer laparoscopic technique that allows the surgeon to carry out hernia repair without entering the peritoneal cavity.

Once the repair is complete, the incisions in the skin are sealed with stitches.

Both open and laparoscopic hernia repair are carried out under a general anaesthetic and take around an hour to complete, depending on the severity of your symptoms.

Both keyhole and open surgery for hernias are safe and effective. The risk of the hernia returning is similar for both types of hernia repair and will depend on the severity of your hernia and your activity levels. Keyhole surgery generally results in less pain and a faster recovery time than open hernia repair surgery as the incisions is smaller. Your surgeon will discuss the best option for you based on the type of hernia you have, the hernia symptoms, your medical history and general overall health.

The procedure for a hernia repair with mesh is similar to the original meshes used to treat pelvic organ prolapse. They are therefore strong and reliable.

There have been many press reports about the negative effects of using this type of mesh in gynaecological procedures. This is because the tissue in the vagina is different to the abdominal wall and does not require the same type of heavy-duty mesh as that used in hernia repair. The risk of complications of using mesh in Hernia Repair surgery is much lower than the risk of complications when it is used to treat pelvic organ prolapse. Your surgeon will discuss any concerns you may have about these risks during your consultation, to make sure you are comfortable with your procedure.

What is a hernia?

There are a number of different types of hernia, and this will affect the surgical approach that your surgeon recommends for you.

Inguinal hernia repair

Inguinal hernias are the most common type of hernia and mainly affect men. They present as a lump or swelling in the groin area or as an enlarged scrotum. The lump may disappear when you lie down but may also cause pain. An inguinal hernia appears when fatty tissue or a part of the bowel or intestine pushes through a weakened spot in the abdominal wall into the inguinal canal, at the top of the inner thigh. It is more common in older people, as the abdominal muscles weaken with age, and repeated straining.

Femoral hernias

Femoral hernias present as a painful lump in the inner upper part of the thigh or groin areas. They occur when fatty tissue or part of the bowel pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall into the femoral canal. The lump can often be pushed ‘back in’ or it may disappear when you lie down. Coughing or straining may cause the lump to appear or worsen.

Femoral hernias are rare and tend to affect more women than men. They are typically linked to ageing and obesity. Femoral hernias can appear as a result of repeated strain on the stomach, for example carrying excess weight or straining on the toilet if you are suffering from constipation.

Hiatus hernias

A hiatus hernia, also known as Diaphragmatic hernia is caused by part of the stomach moving upwards into the chest by squeezing through a gap in the diaphragm at the top of the abdomen. It is very common in people aged over 50.

Many people do not experience any symptoms from a hiatus hernia, but others may experience heartburn, bloating or difficulty swallowing. Hiatus hernias may be caused by the diaphragm becoming weak with age, or pressure around the stomach, from pregnancy or being overweight. Lifestyle changes may ease hiatus hernia symptoms, but surgery is the only method to treat them fully.

Umbilical hernia repair

Umbilical hernias occur when fatty tissue or part of your bowel pokes through the stomach close to the naval, appearing as a painless lump. This type of hernia is very common in young children, particularly premature babies, although they can also occur in adults. They may get larger when laughing, crying, coughing or going to the toilet. It may get smaller when lying down.

In children, an umbilical hernia often disappears by the age of four or five years. However, in adults if left untreated they may become more severe and require treatment.

Incisional hernia

Incisional hernias can occur if a wound in the abdomen has not healed properly, or has not been closed fully during surgery, causing tissue to push through the incision site. They require further treatment from your surgeon.

Epigastric hernias

Fatty tissue poking through the abdomen, between the belly button and the lower part of the breastbone is known as an epigastric hernia.

Spigelian hernias

Spigelian hernias occur at the side of the abdomen, when part of the bowel pushes through the abdominal wall. They usually occur below the naval.

Muscle hernias

Often caused by a sporting injury, muscle hernias usually affect the legs. As the name would suggest, this type of hernia occurs when part of the muscle pokes through tissue creating a lump.

Hernia Surgeons

We have invited a selection of the country's very best consultants to join us at the Cadogan Clinic so that you can be sure that whatever the nature of your treatment, you will be seeing one of the top practitioners in the country.

Our Surgeons

Georgios Vasilikostas

Consultant General Surgeon

How is a hernia diagnosed?

Hernias can be quite prominent and usually a physical examination is enough to diagnose the presence and type of a hernia. This involves pushing down on the abdomen with the hands to check whether there is a lump present. The doctor will also discuss your symptoms with you.

If the doctor suspects you may have a femoral hernia, they may request an ultrasound scan to check for a bowel obstruction. An obstructed bowel is a medical emergency and must be treated immediately.

Before your Hernia Repair Surgery, your surgeon may ask you to have an ultrasound of the affected area to assist them with treating you in the best way and getting the best result.

What is the recovery time from Hernia Repair Surgery?

The recovery time following Hernia Repair depends on the type of surgery performed. A laparoscopic hernia repair generally has a faster recovery time than open surgery.

Depending on which type of hernia surgery you have, you may be able to return to work and your regular gentle day-to-day activities within a couple of weeks of your Hernia Repair.

If you have had a laparoscopic hernia repair, you may also find you have some pain in your shoulders. This is because of the carbon dioxide gas used to lift the wall of the abdomen. This is normal and the gas will naturally disperse.

Some patients make a complete recovery in four weeks but should continue to avoid heavy lifting for two to three months after surgery.

Patients who have undergone open surgery must avoid strenuous activity and exercise for four to six weeks after their hernia repair.

It is important to follow all aftercare instructions given to you by your surgeon. This will include not smoking, not undertaking any strenuous activities and keeping your incisions clean and dry.

Cadogan Clinic’s on-call nursing service is open 24/7 during your recovery period to help with any questions or queries that you may have.

Frequently Asked Questions

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How painful is hernia surgery?

Hernia surgery itself is not painful as the procedure is carried out under a general anaesthetic. Your groin will feel sore and uncomfortable after the procedure, but over-the-counter painkillers will help with this.

Applying gentle pressure to the wound will help make you feel more comfortable when sneezing or coughing. Straining when going to the toilet should be avoided, so it is important to drink lots of water, eat vegetables, fruit and high-fibre foods and perhaps take a mild laxative if it helps.

How do I know if my hernia needs surgery?

If you have a hernia, it is important to go to the doctor to determine which kind of hernia you have, even if it is not causing you any pain or discomfort. Some types of hernia, like an inguinal hernia, are more likely to become strangulated or cause a bowel obstruction than others and these will need to be operated on in order to avoid these complications. Your hernia will also need surgery if it contains part of your bowel, muscle or any other tissue as this increases the risk of obstruction or strangulation. Surgery will also be required if your hernia symptoms are severe, getting worse or affecting your ability to carry out everyday tasks.

What happens if a hernia is left untreated?

If left untreated, there is a risk of strangulation, where the blood supply is cut off to the section of the organ or tissue trapped in the hernia. There is also a risk of obstruction if a piece of bowel has entered the hernia and become stuck. A strangulated hernia and obstructed bowel are medical emergencies.

What are the first signs of a hernia?

Often the first sign of a hernia is the appearance of a lump or bulge that you can see and feel. This bulge may be painful or painless and may disappear when laying down. In the case of hiatus hernia, you may find that you start to develop digestive discomfort.

What Causes Hernias?

Hernias are caused by a combination of pressure and an opening or weakness in the muscle. This weakness may be present at birth or develop later in life.

Pressure in the abdomen may be caused by lifting or pulling heavy objects, straining when going to the toilet, pregnancy and persistent coughing. You are at a greater risk of developing a hernia if you are obese, smoke or if you do not eat a healthy, balanced diet.

What happens if a hernia is left untreated?

If left untreated, hernia symptoms may get worse and there is ongoing risk of bowel obstruction or strangulation, which are both medical emergencies.

If you have a hernia and experience sudden, severe pain, vomiting, difficulty going to the toilet or if the hernia becomes firm, tender or can’t be pushed back in, then you should seek immediate medical assistance.

Words from Our Founder

Mr. Bryan Mayou

Hernias cause not only physical discomfort, but they cause cosmetic issues too, sometimes impacting the clothing patients feel confident wearing and the activities they are able to take part in. By performing a relatively simple procedure, it is possible for patients to return to a lifestyle they had to leave behind be it the clothes they wear or sporting activities they engage in.

Mr. Bryan Mayou

A state of the art, award winning clinic.

Founded in 2004 by world renowned plastic surgeon Mr Bryan Mayou, we now work with over 100 leading consultants and successfully treat over 20,000 patients each year. We have been winning industry awards since inception.

About Us

Best in Class Facilities

All of our treatments take place at our beautiful boutique premises in Chelsea. We have six consulting rooms and five operating rooms, as well as a dedicated pre and post-operative suite, and a full team of specialist nursing staff.

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A Strong Tradition of Innovation

We were founded in 2004 by world renown plastic surgeon Mr Bryan Mayou, best known for his pioneering work in the area of liposuction, lasers and microvascular surgery. We continue to collaborate with pioneers in our field.

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At Home in Sloane Street, London

We are proud that our state of the art award-winning clinic is located in one of the best neighbourhoods in the country

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Clinics Nationwide

We offer surgical consultations in London, Birmingham, Chelmsford and Bristol, and attract international patients from all corners of the globe such as as the USA, the Middle East and Europe.

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Hernia Repair Surgery