Hernias are a common medical condition, occurring when internal tissue pushes through a weakened area of muscle or connective tissue. While some hernias remain stable for a period of time, many gradually increase in size or discomfort and ultimately require surgical treatment
A hernia occurs when an internal structure, such as the intestine or fatty tissue, protrudes through a weakened area of muscle. This often presents as a visible or palpable bulge that may cause discomfort during lifting, coughing or physical activity. Hernias do not heal without surgery and may gradually increase in size if left untreated.
Common types of hernia include:
Although symptoms vary, hernias can affect posture, movement and quality of life. In some cases, they may pose a medical risk if tissue becomes trapped.
Hernia repair is a surgical procedure that strengthens the weakened area of the abdominal wall and returns displaced tissue to its correct position. Modern hernia repair techniques aim to relieve discomfort, prevent complications and restore long term stability to the affected area.
There are two main approaches:
A small incision is made directly over the hernia. The protruding tissue is repositioned, and the weakened muscle is reinforced using sutures or mesh. This method is highly effective and often preferred for larger or recurrent hernias.
Several small incisions are used to insert a camera and surgical instruments. The hernia is repaired internally, often with mesh reinforcement. This technique may offer faster recovery and reduced postoperative discomfort.
Your consultant will discuss the advantages of each approach and recommend the technique best suited to your hernia type, lifestyle and medical history.
At 101 Harley Street, patient satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do. Our reviews reflect the expertise of our consultants, the quality of our care, and the exceptional results our patients experience. From your first consultation to full recovery, our team is dedicated to providing a seamless, supportive and reassuring journey, something our patients consistently highlight in their feedback. Below you can see our verified google reviews. You can also see more reviews on Doctify.
Doctor Dan Wright is not only one of the kindest and nicest human beings you could ever meet he’s one of the most professional. At every stage of my procedure I felt reassured and in very safe hands. I would not normally post a review of anything that isn’t a restaurant or a barber but I felt compelled to here because my experience was so wonderful. Fantastic stuff. Brilliant.
I recently had surgery at 101 Harley Street and was impressed by the level of care and professionalism displayed by the entire team. I was greeted with friendly staff which immediately made me feel comforted, and this genuine care continued throughout the entire journey. I highly recommend this clinic to anyone seeking quality medical care.
Dr Dan and his team at 101 are exceptional. I was made to feel so comfortable and relaxed during my procedure and everything is done with the highest level of professionalism. Can’t recommend them enough!
Staff were all extremely kind and thoughtful all through the process. I always come away feeling like I’ve had the best chat with good friends over a delicious coffee in a gorgeous spot. And all the while… also leaving with healthier skin. I’ve loved working with Emma and Duncan and everyone else at 101!
I had a procedure recently at 101 and I’m so happy with how it went! The staff and the consultant were super friendly and made me feel safe and welcome. The results of my procedure are fantastic and I will recommend to all of my friends and family.
Hernia repair is suitable for individuals who experience:
Prompt assessment is important because hernias do not resolve without intervention. In rare circumstances, tissue may become trapped, leading to an urgent condition. For this reason, evaluation by a specialist consultant is recommended as soon as a hernia is suspected.
Hernia repair can offer significant improvements in daily comfort and long term health, including:
| Benefits of Hernia Repair |
|---|
Relief from pain and discomfort |
Correction of visible bulging |
Improved mobility and ability to exercise |
Prevention of further hernia enlargement |
Restoration of abdominal wall strength |
Lower risk of tissue incarceration |
Enhanced confidence and quality of life |
It is common to have questions about a surgical procedure. Some key questions here that we receive from patients considering a hernia repair.
If you are looking for more general information about what happens from your first consultation to aftercare visit our Your Journey page to understand how we guide each patient through the consultation, surgery, and recovery process within our Harley Street surgical centre.
Most patients experience only mild discomfort after hernia repair, which improves quickly. Pain relief and gentle activity help support a comfortable recovery.
Recovery from hernia repair typically takes a few weeks. Many patients return to light activity within one to two weeks and resume full exercise after four to six weeks.
Recurrence is uncommon, especially when mesh reinforcement is used. Your consultant will advise on long term care to support the durability of your hernia repair.
Yes. Many hernias can be treated with laparoscopic hernia repair, which may offer faster recovery. Your surgeon will recommend the best approach for your specific case.
Untreated hernias may enlarge over time and can occasionally trap tissue. Hernia repair prevents these issues and restores abdominal wall strength.
Light walking can begin soon after hernia repair, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for several weeks. Your consultant will guide you based on your progress.
Mesh is widely used and considered safe for most patients. It strengthens the repair and reduces recurrence. Your consultant will discuss whether mesh is appropriate for your hernia repair.
Our generously proportioned theatre can accommodate cases performed under general anaesthetic, intravenous sedation and local anaesthetic. We also have two treatment/consultation rooms where consultations and other minor operative procedures can be performed.
Our spacious, newly modernised operating theatre has been designed and equipped to provide surgeons and anaesthetists with an optimised environment to perform ambulatory day case surgical procedures. It is a very flexible space and can accommodate a wide range of non-infectious cases performed with local anaesthesia, IV sedation or full TIVA general anaesthesia (ASA Grade 1 and 2 only).
To learn more about what is involved before, during and after surgery, visit our journey page below.
If the enlargement is mainly fatty tissue, liposuction may be sufficient. Through small incisions placed discreetly at the side of the chest, a cannula is used to remove excess fat and sculpt a natural contour
Firm glandular tissue beneath the nipple often requires direct removal. A small incision is typically made around the lower edge of the areola to access and excise the gland.
Most patients benefit from a combination of liposuction and excision. This ensures both volume reduction and smooth contouring across the chest.
Fine sutures are used to close incisions, and a supportive compression garment is applied to minimise swelling and assist with shaping during early recovery.
Each member of our team of friendly, welcoming and highly skilled nurses and administrative staff has been individually chosen for their compassion, enthusiasm and dedication to providing our patients and medical staff with an unparalleled level of care.
