Incisional Hernia Treatment: Causes, Symptoms, and Surgical Options

What is Incisional Hernia ?

An incisional hernia is a type of abdominal hernia that occurs at the site of a previous surgical incision. It happens when internal tissues or organs push through a weakened area in the abdominal wall, typically along or near a scar from past surgery. While some may be small and painless, many require timely surgical repair to prevent serious complications.

This article covers everything you need to know about incisional hernias—causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, recovery, and surgery costs in India. If you're searching for the best hernia specialist doctor in Delhi or need to consult an experienced incisional hernia surgeon in Delhi, this guide will help you make informed decisions.

What is an Incisional Hernia?

An incisional hernia presents as a bulge or soft swelling near a previous abdominal surgery site. It can occur months or even years after the original operation, especially when the abdominal wall didn’t heal properly or was weakened due to complications.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors increase the risk of developing an incisional hernia:

• Previous abdominal surgeries (e.g., C-section, bowel surgery, hysterectomy)

• Poor wound healing or post-surgical complications

• Infections at the surgical site

• Obesity or sudden weight gain

• Lifting heavy weights too soon after surgery

• Repeated abdominal operations

• Chronic coughing or straining due to constipation

• Smoking and diabetes (both delay wound healing)

Incisional Hernia Treatment Options

1. Watchful Waiting (For Small, Asymptomatic Hernias)

In rare cases—especially among elderly or high-risk individuals—your doctor might recommend monitoring the hernia if it’s small and not causing symptoms.

2. Surgical Repair (Permanent Solution)

Surgery is the only effective treatment for moderate to large or painful incisional hernias. You can choose among three common techniques:

A. Open Hernia Repair

• A direct incision is made at the hernia site

• The protruding organ or tissue is pushed back

• The abdominal wall is reinforced using surgical mesh

• Suitable for larger or complex hernias

B. Laparoscopic Hernia Repair

• Minimally invasive, using 2–3 small incisions

• A camera (laparoscope) is inserted to guide the surgery

• Mesh is placed internally for reinforcement

• Offers quicker recovery, less pain, and fewer complications

C. Robotic Hernia Surgery

• Advanced version of laparoscopic surgery, guided by robotic arms

• Greater precision and flexibility for complex or recurrent cases

• Available at select advanced surgical centers

Mesh Repair in Incisional Hernias

Most modern hernia surgeries involve mesh repair, which reduces the risk of recurrence. The mesh strengthens the abdominal wall and integrates with your tissue over time. When placed by an experienced incisional hernia surgeon in Delhi, mesh repair is highly safe and effective.

Incisional Hernia Surgery Cost in India

Surgery costs vary depending on the technique used, location, hospital standards, and surgeon’s expertise. Below is a general cost breakdown:

These estimates usually include surgeon fees, anesthesia, OT charges, hospital stay, and mesh (if applicable).

Conclusion

An incisional hernia is a common but potentially serious complication following abdominal surgery. While minor hernias may not require immediate treatment, most symptomatic or enlarging hernias need surgical intervention to prevent risks like bowel strangulation or obstruction.

Choosing the best hernia specialist doctor in Delhi ensures you get the right diagnosis, expert care, and the most suitable surgical technique—be it open, laparoscopic, or robotic. Whether you’re looking for precision, quicker recovery, or reduced recurrence risk, an experienced incisional hernia surgeon in Delhi can deliver optimal results tailored to your condition.